HC Deb 25 March 1999 vol 328 c354W
28. Mr. Pike

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what representations his Department has received on arrangements made by employers to avoid providing the full benefit of minimum wage to their employees. [77064]

Mr. Byers

Not only do most employers support the principle of the national minimum wage, but many firms have already adjusted their pay structures to take account of its introduction. The Inland Revenue will enforce the minimum wage by responding to complaints and targeting inspections on those sectors where underpayments are likely to occur.

29. Mr. Walter

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what representations he has received concerning the Bank of England's assessment of the inflationary implications of the minimum wage. [77066]

Mr. Byers

I have received a number of representations on the possible effect of the introduction of the national minimum wage, including its impact on inflation.