Following last week's recommendations from the TUC regarding stronger sanctions for employers not paying the national minimum wage, the Government has released a list of 33 businesses that have breached the law.
Responding to this, Debbie Fellows, Associated in the employment law team, at Thorntons, said:
"This is the lastest announcement by the Government where they have chosen to identify businesses who have failed to pay the national minimum wage to employees, bringing the total of the number of businesses "named and shamed" to 92.
It includes a prominent national clothes retail business and this is likely to mean today's list gets particular publicity.
"The figures involved might seem quite low to some – the 37 companies named today owed a total of over £139,000 – but for those who have not been paid correctly this is lot of money and will have a huge impact on their lives.
"It's another reminder that the Government is seeking to address this issue and those businesses who are not adhering to the law should change practice very quickly. Additional sums have also been assigned to the HMRC's enforcement budget, so for those flouting the law, the risks and consequences of being caught are increasing.
"It will be interesting to see the local response to this as well. There are three Scottish companies on this list and for people to know a business doesn't pay its employees the national minimum wage could stain its character and reputation, which could have a detrimental effect.
Debbie Fellows is an Partner in our specialist Employment Law team. We are always delighted to talk without obligation about whether we might meet your needs. Call Debbie on 01382 229111 or email dfellows@thorntons-law.co.uk