Council fined over minimum wage

Torbay Council said it has revised its procedures

A Devon council has become the first authority to be fined for not providing the right minimum wage information to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

Torbay Council was found guilty and told to pay £1,000 for failing to produce the correct records for workers in the parks and leisure departments.

Elizabeth Raikes, the council's Chief Executive, said: "There has been no loss of income to any individual."

Torquay magistrates also ordered the authority to pay £500 in court costs.

Deep regret

Jane Kennedy, Minister for HMRC, said: "The enforcement teams have an excellent record ensuring workers receive their legal entitlement to at least the minimum wage."

She added: "The majority of UK employers are honest and responsible. Those who refuse to help with enquiries or to comply with the law could face criminal prosecution."

Ms Raikes, from the council, added: "I deeply regret the failure of the council to provide the information.

"The members of staff who should have provided the information to the Inland Revenue in 2006 have left the council's employment, so the question of disciplinary action cannot arise," she added.

Torbay Council, which was prosecuted on Monday, said it had reviewed and revised its procedures in an effort to stop something like this from happening again.

Bob Gaiger, HMRC spokesman, said he would expect a local council to understand the Minimum Wage Act.