In a significant move to protect low-paid workers, the UK government is set to publicly name and shame employers who fail to pay the national minimum wage. The reforms, expected to be announced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, aim to clear a backlog of cases and ensure businesses have no place to hide.
Cracking Down on Unscrupulous Employers
A Treasury source confirmed that the government is taking a hard line against unscrupulous employers to ensure fair pay for hard work. The new policy will see the government regularly publishing the names of offending companies. "We are sending a clear message – those who short change their staff will not be allowed to hide," the source stated.
The scale of the problem is substantial. Treasury figures reveal that in October alone, 500 employers were found to have failed paying the minimum wage, negatively impacting approximately 42,000 workers. These businesses were collectively fined £10.2 million and were forced to reimburse their employees for the lost wages.
Budget Announcements: From Playgrounds to Vape Powers
This news comes ahead of Wednesday's Budget, which is expected to include a range of other measures. The chancellor will announce an £18 million scheme to revamp playgrounds across England. This funding, following the government's Pride in Place programme, is set to benefit 200 play areas, creating safer and more exciting spaces for thousands of children.
In a separate crackdown, the Budget will also grant new powers to Border Force and HM Revenue & Customs to tackle the flood of illegal vapes. Officers will be able to seize illegal vapes on the spot and issue £10,000 fines. Furthermore, new criminal offences could see business owners who break the rules facing prison time.
From October 2026, a new safety measure will be introduced: all vapes will be required to have a digital duty stamp with a QR code. This will allow customers and law enforcement to instantly verify a product's authenticity. Shops will be given a six-month grace period to sell any existing unstamped stock.
A Clear Message on Fairness and Enforcement
A Downing Street source emphasised the government's commitment, stating the chancellor will "crack down hard" on the rogue traders flooding Britain's high streets with illegal vapes. The dual approach of the Budget—protecting workers' pay and consumer safety—signals a strong stance on enforcement and fair practice. These measures are designed to protect vulnerable individuals and back honest businesses operating within the law.
