There are several reasons why wages may differ between individuals, occupations, industries, and regions. Supply and demand factors influence wages, as some professions like barristers have limited supply and long qualifications, making them difficult to substitute. Government policy, such as minimum wage laws, and union activity can also impact wages. Discrimination based on characteristics like gender and ethnicity can cause labor market failures and unequal treatment. For example, women on average earn 60% of what men earn in the city described and face a 39% gender pay gap. Ethnic minorities also face discrimination through lack of access to higher-paying occupations and lower pay within jobs.