Employers Who Steal Wages Should Be Made Criminally Liable
A shocking investigation has revealed that employers who fail to pay wages often go unpunished. Matthew Cole argues that it's time to make wage theft a criminal matter.
There is a saying that when something is punishable by a fine, it means "legal, for a price". UK employers seem to take this to heart, as a recent investigation by the Bureau of Investigative Journalism shows that the penalty system has barely been enforced.
- Over 4,800 firms have been fined since 2016, but only 109 have actually paid.
- The government has levied £9.6m in fines, but has recovered only £95,000, less than 1%.
Enforcing employment rights in the UK largely falls to workers themselves, who must take their employer to a tribunal. However, many face significant barriers, including:
- Costly legal advice
- Risks of suing their boss
- Delays of up to 18 months before a hearing
When something is punishable by a fine, it really means “legal, for a price”
Trade unions offer support, but only if you are a member before the dispute. Author's summary: Wage theft should be a criminal offense.
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