Christmas boost for low-paid workers
27 December 2006
The vast array of temporary and part-time employees taken on to cover the busy Christmas period are today reminded of their right to be paid at least the national minimum wage.
Shops, bars, hotels, restaurants and courier services all see a surge in the number of employees in December. Other areas taking on temporary staff include the fitness and security sectors.
Now complaints about non-payment of the minimum wage are even easier over the Christmas holiday period, thanks to a new online service launched this month.
Instead of phoning the helpline, people who think they may be owed minimum wage arrears can make a complaint in a secure section of HMRC's website, any time of day or night.
And in an additional boost to minimum wage enforcement, the budget was increased by 50% in this year's pre-budget report. This money will build on recent initiatives such as singling out specific employment sectors where non-payment is widespread, for a period of targeted education and enforcement.
Paymaster General, Dawn Primarolo said: "Our minimum wage enforcement teams have a great track-record in securing arrears for people who have been paid less than the minimum wage. Employers and employees need to remember that anyone working on a temporary or part time basis over Christmas is still entitled to be paid at least the minimum wage.
"The new online feature will now make it even easier for people tell us about possible cases of underpayment at a time that suits them.
"Christmas can be an expensive time for families so we want to make it as easy as possible for people who may be owed money to get in touch so we can investigate, and where possible secure any outstanding arrears."
Employment Minister Jim Fitzpatrick said: "All workers over the age of 22 are entitled to at least £5.35 an hour and those aged 18-21 at least £4.45 an hour, regardless of whether they are full-time, part-time or casual workers taken on to cover the Christmas rush.
"Thankfully the majority of employers know their responsibilities and act within the law. But if anyone thinks they are the victim of scrooge bosses this Christmas call the National Minimum Wage helpline or complain online, and we will investigate and where possible, recover any unpaid wages that may be due."
In 2005-2006, National Minimum Wage enforcement teams recovered £3,291,516 in unpaid wages on behalf of 25,314 workers.
The National Minimum Wage helpline number is 0845 6000 678.
Complaints can be made online at http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/nmw
