HMRC TARGETS FASHION HOUSES EXPLOITING INTERNS

Fashion houses are the latest targets of an HM Revenue & Customs campaign aimed at ending the exploitation of interns.

HMRC has already written to a number of fashion houses and designer labels warning them about non-payment of the National Minimum Wage.

The letters were sent to fashion houses that exhibited at London Fashion Week in September 2011, and are expected to do so again at the capital’s Fashion Week in February.

Michelle Wyer, HMRC’s Assistant Director for National Minimum Wage, said:
“These letters give fashion houses plenty of warning that they are under scrutiny. If they are not playing by the rules, now is the time to put things right. Non-payment of the national minimum wage is not an option.”

“Our message is clear: don’t wait for us to come knocking on your door; put things right now and avoid a penalty and possible prosecution.”

Letters to 102 fashion labels have been issued, with compliance visits due to begin early this month.