Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, if his Department will investigate recent reports on working practices and conditions at Sports Direct.

The Department of Business, Innovation and Skills is not able to comment on the affairs of any individual or employer. However, the Employment Agency Standards Inspectorate, which oversees compliance with the Conduct of Employment Agencies and Employment Business Regulations and HMRC which enforces compliance with the National Minimum Wage, follow-up every complaint that they receive in these areas. They also undertake targeted risk-based enforcement in sectors where there is the greatest risk of non-compliance.

Workers can call the ACAS helpline for free and confidential advice about their rights and entitlements. If they want to make a complaint, they can do so in complete confidence –their anonymity will be protected throughout the investigation. Their website address is www.acas.org.uk. They have a national public helpline, 0300 123 1100. The helpline is open 8.00 am to 8.00 pm Monday to Friday and 9.00 am to 1.00 pm on Saturday.