Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer, how many employers have been prosecuted for not paying employees the National Living Wage in the last two years.

The government is determined that everyone who is entitled to the National Minimum and Living Wage (NMW) receives it.

There were three successful prosecutions for NMW offences in 2016/17 and one in 2017/18. Breaches of NMW legislation are normally a civil matter, where the consequences for not complying with NMW rules can include fines of 200% of the arrears and public naming.

Criminal prosecution is reserved for the most serious non-compliance, with these cases referred to the Crown Prosecution Service who decide whether to prosecute.

Anyone who feels they have been underpaid NMW should contact the Acas helpline on 0300 123 1100. HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) review all complaints that are referred to them.