Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: HM Treasury

Oral Answers to Questions

Andy Sawford Excerpts
Tuesday 28th January 2014

(10 years, 4 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Danny Alexander Portrait The Chief Secretary to the Treasury (Danny Alexander)
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Yes, I can confirm that. A state aid investigation has been opened, so we are compelled under European law to suspend the exemption, but, working with the industry, we have provided a very robust response to the Commission outlining why the exemption is justified. We remain confident that the Commission will find that the exemption does not amount to state aid.

Andy Sawford Portrait Andy Sawford (Corby) (Lab/Co-op)
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T8. Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs is investigating 12 employment agencies in my constituency for underpayment of the minimum wage. Two investigations have been concluded, penalties imposed and money repaid to local workers, but local people simply do not understand why the Government will not name and shame those two agencies. I think the Government are wrong. Will they reconsider?

Baroness Morgan of Cotes Portrait The Economic Secretary to the Treasury (Nicky Morgan)
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I think the hon. Gentleman raised this topic in the debate on the national minimum wage. I am very happy to take this away and to have a conversation once I have had a chat with Treasury officials.