Minimum wage excuses given out by employers

Stating it“didn’t apply”to their business, their accountant“speaks a different language”and an employee didn’t deserve it because“she only makes the tea and sweeps the floors”were among the ludicrous excuses some employers provided HMRC for not paying staff the national minimum wage.

And the organisation is warning Lanarkshire employers to cough up the hourly rates or face“hefty fines or other enforcement actions”.

Last year (2020/21) HMRC helped more than 155,000 workers across the UK recover over £16m in pay due to them – and also issued more than £14m in penalties.

Steve Timewell, of HMRC, told the Reformer: “The majority of UK employers pay their workers at least the National Minimum Wage, but these findings show some of the excuses provided to our enforcement officers by less scrupulous businesses.

“Being underpaid is no joke for workers, so we always apply the law and take action. Workers cannot be asked or told to sign away their rights.

“We are making sure workers are being paid what they are entitled to and, as the economy reopens, reminding employers of the rules and the help that is available to them.”

The current wage structure is £8.91 for those aged 23 or over; £8.36 for those aged 21-22; £6.56 for those aged 18-20; £4.62 for under 18s; and £4.30 for apprentices.

And the HMRC have warned they“review every complaint made”about the minimum wage.

Workers are urged to check the hourly rate of pay they are actually getting, and also check any deductions or unpaid working time.

Anyone not being paid what they are entitled to can complain online or call the Acas Pay and Work Rights helpline anonymously on 0300 123 1100.

Employers can also contact the Acas helpline for free help and advice from experts.