Chloe SmithMP for Norwich North
Chloe SmithThe Government has strengthened the sanctions for employers who don’t pay the minimum wage, along with naming and shaming the culprits.
Commenting on the move, Chloe said:
“Work must pay, that is fundamental. We have a minimum wage in this country for a reason, and it is criminal not to meet it.
“In the last three years the Government has published the details of nearly five hundred bosses who failed to pay their workers the legal minimum. What’s more, since we came to power, overall penalties of nearly £5.6 million have been imposed, with the worst cases facing prosecution as well.
“With the introduction of the new living wage, it is even more important that nobody is cheated out of being paid what they are now entitled to.”
The Government has significantly reduced the average time taken to investigate complaints about employers’ non-compliance with the minimum wage. There is still more to do though, with the time taken to investigate complaints varying considerably depending on the complexity of cases and the co-operation of the employer.
Speaking about the challenges going forward, Chloe commented:
“I welcome the tougher punishments for those who cheat their workers, but the social care sector in particular remains a concern. It is estimated than one in ten care workers may not be paid the legal minimum. We need to remain vigilant to cases of exploitation. I would urge constituents to report any problems related to employment rights through the Acas Helpline on 0300 123 1100.”