PRESS RELEASE 5 November 1999

Welcome for government's targeting of ethnic minorities on minimum wage

The Low Pay Unit today welcomed the government's decision to target advertising for the National Minimum Wage on black and ethnic minority workers.

People from ethnic minorities are amongst the lowest paid workers in Britain today. They are particularly likely to work in poorly paid sectors like hotels and catering or the textile industry.

Director of the Unit, Bharti Patel said:

"Targeting these groups in the government's information campaign recognises that some people are more vulnerable than others to exploitation at work, and less able or willing to assert their rights on their own. This sends out the right signals, showing that the government is committed to enforcing the minimum wage.

However, the enforcement agency needs to be more proactive in identifying and pursuing employers avoiding their obligations, without relying on vulnerable workers to report abuses. This would send a clear message to employers that there will be no hiding place for those who are seeking to evade the law."

For further information contact Bharti Patel, Director, or Jeff Masters, Rights Officer: 0171 713 7616 or 0788 764 3750 (mobile)