Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to ensure that those on apprenticeships are being paid what they are legally entitled to.

The Government is determined that everyone who is entitled to the NMW receives it.

HMRC enforces the National Minimum and Living Wage (NMW) in line with the law and policy set out by the Department for Business and Trade (DBT)

All businesses, irrespective of size or business sector are responsible for paying the correct minimum wage to their staff. HMRC won’t hesitate to take action to ensure that workers receive what they are legally entitled to.

We take seriously and review all complaints from workers including apprentices referred by the ACAS Helpline or received via the online complaints form. If anyone thinks they are not receiving at least the minimum wage, they can contact ACAS, in confidence, on 0300 123 1100 or submit a query online at gov.uk (see footnote[1]).

In addition to the enforcement of NMW legislation HMRC deliver a programme of upstream ‘Promote’ work designed to encourage employer compliance which includes apprentices. This involves a range of activities to increase both employers’ and workers’ understanding of NMW rules.

[1] www.Gov.UK https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/pay-and-work-rights-complaints .