As of 1st October 2003 the minimum wage has risen to £4.50 an hour and to £3.80 per hour for the youth rate. These figures were first published in March 2003. To coincide with the increased rate the DTI has published figures concerning what it calls ’rogue’ employers. It is also starting a campaign to publicise the new rates.
The DTI's figures show that over 3.5million in unpaid wages from employers flouting the minimum wage was uncovered last year. It brings the total to almost 13million since the minimum wage was introduced in 1999.
The Inland Revenue carried out more than 6,000 investigations last year - an increase of more than 500 on the previous year. This followed the introduction of three new teams in Leicester, Wigan and Shipley.
The DTI has started a five week publicity campaign to publicise the rise in the adult rate to £4.50 an hour and £3.80 for the youth rate. These new rises come into force on October 1st. For the first time the campaign will include targeted advertising through recruitment websites.
Please do not hesitate to contact Steen & Co Employment Solicitors for further information