§ 24. Mr. PlaskittTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what plans he has to ensure the prosecution of employers paying their staff less than the national minimum wage. [86519]
§ Mr. Ian McCartneyThe Inland Revenue enforce the national minimum wage on behalf of this Department. Inspectors have powers to inspect records and to issue enforcement and penalty notices. They can prosecute the worst offenders for the criminal offence of 'refusal or wilful neglect' to pay the minimum wage, and for offences relating to record keeping and obstruction of officers. The decision to prosecute in a particular case will be a matter for the Revenue.
Enforcement Officers respond to complaints from workers and from other employers, and will shortly begin targeted inspections of low-paying employers.
§ 25. Mr. RammellTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on his actions to enforce the minimum wage. [86521]
§ Mr. Ian McCartneyThe Secretary of State has made arrangements with the Inland Revenue to enforce the national minimum wage on behalf of this Department. Enforcement is carried out through a helpline, a compliance co-ordination team and by a network of minimum wage inspectors in the regions.
Officers respond to complaints from workers and employers, and will shortly begin proactive inspections of low-paying employers.