Tag: UK Government

UK Government urged to abandon ‘immoral’ disability benefit cuts

Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville has written to UK Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall, calling for an urgent change to the UK Government’s “immoral and reckless” social security reforms.

Ms Somerville welcomed the suggestion by Prime Minister Keir Starmer that cuts to winter fuel payment could be eased, but said this was not enough.

In the letter the Social Justice Secretary said: ‘I was pleased to hear the Prime Minister announce plans to ease the Winter Fuel Payment cuts in Parliament last week.

‘I am also aware of various media reports suggesting that a change in the UK Government’s two-child limit may be announced shortly. I welcome these developments and recognise that it is a step in the right direction to delivering a more robust Social Security system.

‘However, deep concerns remain around the UK government’s damaging social security reforms, including those announced in the ‘Pathways to Work’ Green Paper.

‘Given the speculation on the reversal or partial reversal of policies on Winter Fuel Payment and Two Child Cap, I call on you to urgently scrap these immoral proposals on disabled benefits.

‘These plans will only push more into poverty. It is therefore reckless and totally unacceptable for the UK Government to press ahead, not least due to the expected severity of the impact they will have on all our efforts to end child poverty – completely undermining the work of the UK Child Poverty Taskforce.’ 

NAMED AND SHAMED: Over £7.4 million put back in working people’s pockets by employers

More than 500 employers who have left workers over £7.4 million out of pocket by failing to pay the National Living and National Minimum Wage named

  • More money put into the pockets of hardworking people, as government delivers the biggest upgrade to worker’s rights in a generation, as part of the Plan for Change
  • Workers will be paid over £7.4 million by employers after nearly 60,000 workers have been left out of pocket.
  • Action builds on recent uplift to the National Living and National Minimum Wage which puts £1,400 into the pockets of workers and families across the UK

Nearly 60,000 workers who have been left out of pocket will be repaid over £7.4 million the Government has announced today [Thursday 29th May] in its latest move to Make Work Pay.

This follows a significant uplift to the National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage – putting £1,400 into the pockets of full-time workers on NLW and supporting millions of families across the country – as well as the biggest upgrade to workers’ rights in a generation under the Employment Rights Bill.

As part of the Plan for Change, this Government’s priority is to grow the economy and raise living standards. A strong economy can only be built when people have financial security whilst in work and robust enforcement action will be taken against employers who do not pay their staff correctly.

The 518 employers and businesses named today have since paid back what they owe to their staff and faced financial penalties of up to 200% of their underpayment. The investigations by His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) concluded between 2015 – 2022.

Minister for Employment Rights, Justin Madders said: “There is no excuse for employers to undercut their workers, and we will continue to name companies who break the law and don’t pay their employees what they are owed.

“Ensuring workers have the support they need and making sure they receive a fair day’s pay for a fair day’s work is a key commitment in our Plan for Change. This will put more money in working people’s pockets, helping to boost productivity and ending low pay.”

Baroness Philippa Stroud, Chair of the Low Pay Commission, said: “We welcome today’s publication. Underpayment leaves workers out of pocket and disadvantages the majority of employers who do abide by the rules.

“These naming rounds play an important part in ensuring that all workers receive their full wages and that they are aware there is support for them to ensure that they do.”

Putting more money into the pockets of the lowest paid increases workers’ financial security, offers stability to help increase staff retention and lowers recruitment costs for businesses in the long run.  Whilst not all minimum wage underpayments are intentional, the Government is clear that enforcement action will be taken against employers who do not pay their staff correctly.

Ahead of permanently lowering tax rates for high street retail, hospitality, and leisure (RHL) from 2026/27, the UK Government has prevented the current RHL relief from ending this April, extending it for one year to ensure that over 250,000 RHL properties see a full 40 per cent reduction on their liability, and we have frozen the small business multiplier. 

OFFENDERS NAMED AND SHAMED:

1. Capita Business Services Ltd, City of London, EC2V, failed to pay £1,154,461.97 to 5,543 workers.
2. Pizzaexpress (Restaurants) Limited, Croydon, CR0, failed to pay £760,701.61 to 8,470 workers.    
3. Virtual Marketing Services (Gibraltar) Ltd, Birmingham, B3, failed to pay £478,282.71 to 41 workers.    
4. L. Rowland & Company (Retail) Limited , Runcorn, WA7, failed to pay £307,342.87 to 2,293 workers.    
5. Templar Corporation Limited, Lewisham, SE16, failed to pay £298,143.12 to 26 workers.    
6. Lidl Great Britain Limited, Merton, SW19, failed to pay £286,437.18 to 3,423 workers.    
7. British Airways PLC, Harmondsworth, UB7, failed to pay £231,276.10 to 2,165 workers.    
8. Scottish Midland Co-operative Society Limited, Newbridge, EH28, failed to pay £186,883.56 to 1,795 workers.    
9. Interserve (Facilities Management) Ltd, Lambeth, SE1, failed to pay £177,268.08 to 2,297 workers.    
10. Prezzo Limited, Woodford Green, IG8, failed to pay £163,702.67 to 2,550 workers.    
11. Halfords Ltd, Redditch, B98, failed to pay £140,829.79 to 4,341 workers.    
12. The Southern Co-Operative Limited , Portsmouth, PO6, failed to pay £126,739.33 to 2,300 workers.    
13. TUI UK Retail Limited, Luton, LU2, failed to pay £107,611.04 to 2,044 workers.    
14. Heart Of England Co-Operative Society Limited, Coventry, CV6, failed to pay £90,870.95 to 1,017 workers.    
15. CDS (Superstores International) Limited, Plymouth, PL6, failed to pay £89,158.47 to 1,648 workers.    
16. Day Lewis PLC, Croydon, CR0, failed to pay £82,819.47 to 604 workers.    
17. Petrogas Group UK Limited, Ampthill, MK45, failed to pay £63,026.69 to 602 workers.    
18. Mr Guiseppe Caruso , London, W2, failed to pay £59,780.03 to 2 workers.    
19. William Strike Limited, Carlisle, CA6, failed to pay £56,657.01 to 798 workers.    
20. Property Management Services (NI) Limited, Belfast, BT3, failed to pay £54,852.44 to 414 workers.    
21. Coghlan Lodges Limited, Uxbridge, UB8, failed to pay £52,062.45 to 45 workers.    
22. Ant Marketing Limited, Sheffield, S2, failed to pay £46,260.65 to 340 workers.    
23. Maclean Services (L) Limited, London, W2, failed to pay £43,583.26 to 781 workers.    
24. ABM Aviation UK Limited, Hounslow, TW6, failed to pay £40,243.10 to 880 workers.    
25. Malvern Tyres (Wholesale) Limited, Gloucester, GL1, failed to pay £39,012.15 to 158 workers.    
26. Halfords Autocentres Limited, Redditch, B98, failed to pay £38,470.94 to 760 workers.    
27. J M McGill Ltd, Doncaster, DN4, failed to pay £38,178.62 to 364 workers.    
28. R.T. Stuart Limited, Methil, KY8, failed to pay £37,384.89 to 310 workers.    
29. Deluxe Beds Ltd, Huddersfield, HD2, failed to pay £27,233.68 to 64 workers.    
30. Freedom Hotels West Limited, Nr Fort William, PH49, failed to pay £26,814.06 to 37 workers.    
31. Mytime Active, Orpington, BR6, failed to pay £26,414.51 to 414 workers.    
32. Parkdean Resorts UK Limited, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE12, failed to pay £26,360.91 to 291 workers.    
33. Whitakers Chocolates Limited, Skipton, BD23, failed to pay £26,183.83 to 141 workers.    
34. Suttons Tankers Limited, Widnes, WA8, failed to pay £25,631.33 to 35 workers.    
35. Health Care Resourcing Group Limited, Prescot, L34, failed to pay £25,344.45 to 86 workers.    
36. Veecare Ltd, Loughton, IG10, failed to pay £23,567.49 to 168 workers.    
37. Meridian Marlow Ltd, Marlow, SL7, failed to pay £22,993.97 to 66 workers.    
38. Managing Care Limited, Croydon, CR9, failed to pay £21,834.52 to 83 workers.    
39. Mr Sri Krishna Ratnasinkam and Mrs Saraswathy Ratnasinkam , Ringmer, BN8, failed to pay £20,504.98 to 1 worker.    
40. M Buckingham & Company Limited    
, Maulden, MK45, failed to pay £20,361.01 to 3 workers.    
41. Regency Hotel (Northern Ireland) Limited, Belfast, BT3, failed to pay £19,952.21 to 201 workers.    
42. Baxters Food Group Limited, Fochabers, IV32, failed to pay £19,765.00 to 62 workers.    
43. Thrive Childcare and Education Limited, Musselburgh, EH21, failed to pay £19,420.47 to 24 workers.    
44. Hillgate Investments Limited, Rotherhithe , SE16, failed to pay £19,358.74 to 40 workers.    
45. Hilton UK Hotels Limited, Watford, WD24, failed to pay £18,924.07 to 20 workers.    
46. Oscar Mayer Limited, Chard, TA20, failed to pay £18,830.92 to 172 workers.    
47. BA Cityflyer Limited, West Drayton, UB7, failed to pay £17,988.39 to 102 workers.    
48. Crystal Property Cleaning Ltd, Twickenham, TW2, failed to pay £17,767.18 to 1 worker.    
49. Key Care And Support Ltd, Manchester, M34, failed to pay £17,649.66 to 189 workers.    
50. Sean Elliott, Ballymena, BT42, failed to pay £17,518.00 to 1 worker.    
51. YTC Limited, Driffield, YO25, failed to pay £17,194.32 to 226 workers.    
52. Virtual Marketing Services (Gibraltar) Ltd, Gibraltar, GX11, failed to pay £17,155.36 to 1 worker.    
53. Wargrave Auto Centre Limited , Hounslow, TW5, failed to pay £17,114.70 to 37 workers.    
54. Lawrence Davis Design Limited, Stoke On Trent, ST1, failed to pay £16,936.97 to 2 workers.    
55. BJ Bright Day Nurseries Limited, Doncaster, DN5, failed to pay £16,759.85 to 19 workers.    
56. Thorntons Limited, Alfreton, DE55, failed to pay £16,449.00 to 444 workers.    
57. 24/7 Security and Events Ltd, Driffield, YO25, failed to pay £15,962.00 to 74 workers.    
58. Winemark The Winemerchants Limited, Belfast, BT3, failed to pay £15,738.33 to 186 workers.    
59. Anochrome Limited, Walsall, WS2, failed to pay £15,600.86 to 49 workers.    
60. Allen Day Associates Limited, Bidwell, LU5, failed to pay £15,525.26 to 387 workers.    
61. Equitas Solicitors Limited, Preston, PR2, failed to pay £15,412.15 to 72 workers.    
62. Kingwood Limited, Wokingham, RG40, failed to pay £15,090.99 to 1 worker.    
63. The Eastbury (Sherbourne) Limited, Sherborne, DT9, failed to pay £14,813.03 to 7 workers.    
64. Elmoreton Limited, Belfast, BT7, failed to pay £14,782.81 to 391 workers.    
65. Elliott Baxter & Company Limited , Farnborough, GU12, failed to pay £14,411.44 to 43 workers.    
66. MA Bureau Limited, Croydon, CR0, failed to pay £13,226.91 to 6 workers.    
67. Moto Hospitality Limited, Toddington, LU5, failed to pay £13,164.96 to 734 workers.    
68. Slo Drinks Limited, Stockport, SK3, failed to pay £12,716.05 to 1 worker.    
69. The Crown Hotel (Colne) Limited, Colne, BB8, failed to pay £12,642.18 to 2 workers.    
70. EA Coaching Ltd, Birmingham, B34, failed to pay £12,378.25 to 18 workers.    
71. Hydes’ Brewery Limited, Salford, M50, failed to pay £12,281.18 to 176 workers.    
72. Elior UK PLC, Macclesfield, SK11, failed to pay £12,198.61 to 496 workers.    
73. Savoy Tyres Limited, Kingston Upon Hull, HU8, failed to pay £11,921.60 to 6 workers.    
74. PK Sales & Lettings Ltd, Greenwich, SE18, failed to pay £11,885.46 to 5 workers.    
75. Quokka Solutions Ltd, Sunderland , SR5, failed to pay £11,605.84 to 15 workers.    
76. Elix-Irr Consulting Services Limited, London, EC2V, failed to pay £11,101.13 to 21 workers.    
77. Go To The Venue Limited, Oswestry, SY11, failed to pay £10,974.19 to 21 workers.    
78. JWDW Limited, Doncaster, DN4, failed to pay £10,699.64 to 21 workers.    
79. Mr Stuart Benson, Heywood, OL10, failed to pay £10,600.34 to 1 worker.    
80. Philip Russell Limited, Belfast, BT6, failed to pay £10,507.58 to 111 workers.    
81. Energy Kidz Ltd, Wokingham , RG41, failed to pay £10,479.36 to 199 workers.    
82. ABC Pre-School Limited, Culcheth, WA3, failed to pay £10,393.39 to 16 workers.    
83. YAM 110 Limited, Bradford, BD8, failed to pay £10,021.48 to 22 workers.    
84. Lord Charles P Courtenay, Kenton, EX6, failed to pay £9,930.78 to 1 worker.    
85. React Homecare Ltd, Mansfield, NG21, failed to pay £9,907.42 to 127 workers.    
86. Lutonestateandlettings Ltd, Luton, LU3, failed to pay £9,887.66 to 4 workers.    
87. Jill Birt, Bolton, BL5, failed to pay £9,819.79 to 3 workers.    
88. The House That Jack Built (Day Nursery) Limited, Marlow, SL7, failed to pay £9,810.00 to 8 workers.    
89. IWE Services Limited, Staxton, YO12, failed to pay £9,803.34 to 3 workers.    
90. At Home – Specialists in Care Ltd, Pocklington, YO42, failed to pay £9,737.27 to 26 workers.    
91. Mr Albert Cepa, Chesterfield, S40, failed to pay £9,677.33 to 4 workers.    
92. Top Gas Heating & Plumbing Limited, Bristol, BS15, failed to pay £9,675.90 to 4 workers.    
93. Brookfield Retail Ltd, Dewsbury, WF12, failed to pay £9,544.19 to 52 workers.    
94. Clock House Farm Limited, Maidstone, ME17, failed to pay £9,384.53 to 69 workers.    
95. Panic Deliveries Limited, Oldbury , B69, failed to pay £9,362.96 to 29 workers.    
96. Steve Kane Painting & Decorating Limited, Doncaster, DN3, failed to pay £9,317.13 to 11 workers.    
97. Wine Inns Limited, Belfast, BT3, failed to pay £9,295.35 to 103 workers.    
98. SOS Homecare Ltd, Stretford, M32, failed to pay £9,186.36 to 293 workers.    
99. Parkway Derby Limited, Derby, DE24, failed to pay £9,083.64 to 11 workers.    
100. Lashes Nails and Brows Ltd, Thornton Heath, CR7, failed to pay £9,074.84 to 3 workers.    
101. Mrs Carol Olsen , Bedlington, NE22, failed to pay £8,988.13 to 25 workers.    
102. Teddy Bear Nursery Limited, Rochdale, OL16, failed to pay £8,982.22 to 32 workers.    
103. R.H. Wilson (Chemists) Limited, Blackburn, BB1, failed to pay £8,925.53 to 11 workers.    
104. Mr James Westcott, Newport, PO30, failed to pay £8,587.49 to 33 workers.    
105. Mr Orhan Esen, Dumfries, DG1, failed to pay £8,513.17 to 5 workers.    
106. Waterloo and Taunton Conservative Club, Ashton-Under-Lyne, OL7, failed to pay £8,468.51 to 3 workers.    
107. Aramark Limited, Leeds, LS16, failed to pay £8,407.77 to 154 workers.    
108. Mr Mario Wood, Stalybridge, SK15, failed to pay £8,040.26 to 3 workers.    
109. Mr Paul S Clerehugh T/A , Henley-On-Thames, RG9, failed to pay £8,029.07 to 20 workers.    
110. Waggon & Horses (Matley) Ltd, Stalybridge, SK15, failed to pay £8,016.08 to 57 workers.    
111. Rice Solutions Limited, Southport, PR8, failed to pay £7,921.26 to 2 workers.    
112. UK Hairdressers 2019 Limited, Birmingham, B16, failed to pay £7,870.93 to 13 workers.    
113. LIBERTY MUSIC PR LTD, Brighton, BN1, failed to pay £7,663.84 to 3 workers.    
114. Turkuaz Limited, Cheadle, SK8, failed to pay £7,655.93 to 3 workers.    
115. Belgravia Mews Hotel Limited, South Kensington, SW5, failed to pay £7,646.84 to 14 workers.    
116. Start Afresh Cleaning Limited, Ipswich, IP1, failed to pay £7,630.05 to 15 workers.    
117. Mr Atul Patel & Mr Bhikhubhai Patel, Northampton, NN5, failed to pay £7,386.13 to 1 worker.    
118. K J Curson Growers Limited, Wisbech, PE14, failed to pay £7,311.72 to 11 workers.    
119. Artico Limited, Monmouth, NP25, failed to pay £7,306.40 to 1 worker.    
120. Tristan HCW Ltd, Bedford, MK41, failed to pay £7,227.75 to 7 workers.    
121. Mainstage Festivals Limited, Southwark, SE1, failed to pay £7,089.61 to 4 workers.    
122. Talash Limited, CV32, failed to pay £7,053.17 to 53 workers.    
123. J D Wetherspoon Plc, Watford , WD24, failed to pay £7,000.00 to 282 workers.    
124. Aroma Expresso Bar Limited, London, NW4, failed to pay £6,967.02 to 2 workers.    
125. Lymedale Motors Limited, Newcastle Under Lyme, ST5, failed to pay £6,859.90 to 3 workers.    
126. Golders Green Hairdressing Limited, Finchley, NW11, failed to pay £6,846.53 to 10 workers.    
127. Head Office Hair and Beauty (Scotland) Ltd., Glasgow, G61, failed to pay £6,803.01 to 2 workers.    
128. The Stair Arms Hotel Ltd, Pathhead, EH37, failed to pay £6,787.54 to 1 worker.    
129. Springfields Supported Services Limited, Barking, IG11, failed to pay £6,693.35 to 19 workers.    
130. Network Tyre & Auto Limited, Dartford, DA1, failed to pay £6,529.19 to 7 workers.    
131. Specialist Computer Centres Plc, Birmingham, B11, failed to pay £6,491.66 to 28 workers.    
132. Treetops Childrens Nursery Ltd, Blackpool, FY2, failed to pay £6,450.52 to 45 workers.    
133. McDonald & Munro Limited, Elgin, IV30, failed to pay £6,436.10 to 2 workers.    
134. Suez Recycling and Recovery UK Ltd, Maidenhead, SL6, failed to pay £6,387.96 to 47 workers.    
135. Woodhall Capital Limited, London, EC4N, failed to pay £6,294.25 to 1 worker.    
136. Mr Steven Prested, Meadowfield, DH7, failed to pay £6,207.12 to 1 worker.    
137. Best Social Enterprise Ltd, London, SE1, failed to pay £6,171.64 to 10 workers.    
138. The Buck House Limited, Wrexham, LL13, failed to pay £6,101.67 to 1 worker.    
139. Mahmoud Shaduman Ali , Derby , DE23, failed to pay £6,091.90 to 6 workers.    
140. Get Your Mobi Limited, Lancaster, LA1, failed to pay £6,069.51 to 8 workers.    
141. Robertson Facilities Management Limited, Elgin, IV30, failed to pay £5,864.37 to 51 workers.    
142. Orion Group London Limited, Wandsworth, SW18, failed to pay £5,818.69 to 1 worker.    
143. Dee Kay Knitwear Ltd, Leicester, LE4, failed to pay £5,801.65 to 38 workers.    
144. Miss J J Smart, Southampton, SO31, failed to pay £5,778.65 to 1 worker.    
145. Zhanna Horn, Torquay, TQ2, failed to pay £5,749.66 to 2 workers.    
146. The Fernlea Hotel Limited, Lytham St Annes, FY8, failed to pay £5,698.56 to 4 workers.    
147. Gogo and Fried Chicken Limited, Coventry, CV1, failed to pay £5,665.58 to 9 workers.    
148. Chess People Limited, Alderley Edge, SK9, failed to pay £5,629.12 to 1 worker.    
149. Building Blocks Day Nursery (NI) Ltd, Toome, BT41, failed to pay £5,576.45 to 45 workers.    
150. Mr Christopher Owston, North Shields, NE29, failed to pay £5,571.27 to 1 worker.    
151. LJ Care Homes Ltd, Lincoln, LN4, failed to pay £5,568.84 to 56 workers.    
152. Crossgates Stop N Shop Ltd, Leeds, LS15, failed to pay £5,545.63 to 4 workers.    
153. BLFL Services Ltd, Burnham on Crouch, CM0, failed to pay £5,496.06 to 3 workers.    
154. Mr Nigel Ian Fisher, Romsey, SO51, failed to pay £5,442.49 to 1 worker.    
155. Mr Mathew James Hicks, Whitchurch, RG28, failed to pay £5,439.43 to 3 workers.    
156. Old Town Car Wash Ltd, Hastings, TN35, failed to pay £5,422.92 to 5 workers.    
157. London Street Brasserie Limited, Reading, RG1, failed to pay £5,343.77 to 13 workers.    
158. Coton Care Limited, Wolverhampton, WV4, failed to pay £5,342.58 to 47 workers.    
159. Epilepsy Society, Chalfont St Peter, SL9, failed to pay £5,293.99 to 1 worker.    
160. Premier Work Support Limited, Chatham, ME4, failed to pay £5,272.92 to 428 workers.    
161. Power Leisure Bookmakers Limited, Hammersmith, W6, failed to pay £5,245.57 to 257 workers.    
162. Star Lite Jobs Limited, Ilford, IG1, failed to pay £5,237.44 to 67 workers.    
163. Vivienne Westwood Limited, Wandsworth, SW11, failed to pay £5,232.00 to 1 worker.    
164. A.P.C. Panels Ltd, Barry, CF63, failed to pay £5,220.60 to 7 workers.    
165. Ghani Systems Ltd, Glasgow, G42, failed to pay £5,209.68 to 15 workers.    
166. Taylor Dental Laboratory Limited, Leicester, LE5, failed to pay £5,189.75 to 1 worker.    
167. MEDS2U Limited, Barnsley, S73, failed to pay £5,057.78 to 8 workers.    
168. Total Cleaning South Limited, Manston, CT12, failed to pay £5,054.94 to 218 workers.    
169. Decorative Panels Furniture Limited , Elland, HX5, failed to pay £5,045.43 to 62 workers.    
170. Supercar Italia Ltd, Westerham, TN16, failed to pay £4,997.94 to 1 worker.    
171. Miss Gemma Tattersall, Horsham, RH13, failed to pay £4,886.88 to 3 workers.    
172. Mr Muhammed Afzal Jabarkhail , Clydebank, G81, failed to pay £4,873.12 to 1 worker.    
173. Mr Shamim Ahmed, Braunton, EX33, failed to pay £4,867.46 to 1 worker.    
174. Canei International Limited, Nottingham, NG10, failed to pay £4,752.20 to 1 worker.    
175. Kitty Café Leeds Limited, Leeds, LS1, failed to pay £4,745.99 to 10 workers.    
176. DES Healthcare Limited, Lincoln, LN5, failed to pay £4,634.94 to 36 workers.    
177. Lakeside Day Nursery Limited , Swansea, SA6, failed to pay £4,631.93 to 3 workers.    
178. Zayani Limited, West Drayton, UB7, failed to pay £4,593.39 to 2 workers.    
179. Eaton Electrical Systems Limited, Doncaster, DN2, failed to pay £4,576.09 to 24 workers.    
180. Mr Fadhil Omar Ibrahim , Ripley, DE5, failed to pay £4,482.40 to 5 workers.    
181. Central Garage (Chesham) Ltd, Hyde Heath, HP6, failed to pay £4,416.25 to 1 worker.    
182. Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine, Exhibition Road, SW7, failed to pay £4,372.16 to 1 worker.    
183. Penrhyn Inns Limited, Oldham, OL4, failed to pay £4,324.94 to 33 workers.    
184. Everest Hotels Limited, Powys, NP8, failed to pay £4,274.77 to 4 workers.    
185. Coastal Heating Ltd, Sheringham, NR26, failed to pay £4,267.76 to 1 worker.    
186. UK Solutions Limited, Chelmsford, CM1, failed to pay £4,267.22 to 28 workers.    
187. NEO Property Solutions Limited, Leeds, LS9, failed to pay £4,263.52 to 16 workers.    
188. Mountford House Nursery Limited, Nottingham, NG5, failed to pay £4,195.32 to 1 worker.    
189. Major Cleaning Services Limited, Potters Bar, EN6, failed to pay £4,194.74 to 25 workers.    
190. Witham Valeting Ltd, Witham , CM8, failed to pay £4,166.48 to 8 workers.    
191. Parsons Bakery Limited, Bristol, BS3, failed to pay £4,134.64 to 44 workers.    
192. Mr Amir Rasool, Langholm, DG13, failed to pay £4,083.79 to 1 worker.    
193. Grosvenor Concierge Limited  (previously GCS Facility Services Limited), Skegness, PE25, failed to pay £4,056.99 to 120 workers.    
194. Industrial Cleaning Services (UK) Ltd, Camden, WC1N, failed to pay £4,048.91 to 41 workers.    
195. Spring Cleaning Services Limited, Cheltenham, GL51, failed to pay £3,989.71 to 16 workers.    
196. Sunlit Ltd, Lewisham, SE6, failed to pay £3,973.49 to 4 workers.    
197. Blink Productions Limited, Holloway, N7, failed to pay £3,910.06 to 4 workers.    
198. DSM Joinery Contractors Limited, Dunfermline, KY11, failed to pay £3,905.50 to 2 workers.    
199. Fashion Fabric Transprinters Limited, Leicester, LE4, failed to pay £3,779.70 to 2 workers.    
200. Mrs Imogen Katherine Wyvill, Mr Marmaduke D’Arcy William Wyvill and Mr Marmaduke Charles Astey Wyvill, Leyburn, DL8, failed to pay £3,724.37 to 16 workers.    
201. Mrs Nalani Carr, Haverhill, CB9, failed to pay £3,702.83 to 1 worker.    
202. Temple Farm Limited, Ramsgate, CT11, failed to pay £3,696.54 to 57 workers.    
203. Walker Outboard Services Limited, Reading, RG4, failed to pay £3,647.76 to 1 worker.    
204. Shah Foods Ltd, Newham, E16, failed to pay £3,638.69 to 2 workers.    
205. City Office (NI) Ltd, Belfast, BT12, failed to pay £3,622.46 to 2 workers.    
206. Ms Stacey Baker, Doune, FK16, failed to pay £3,582.87 to 1 worker.    
207. Joarr Hot Food Emporium Limited, Southport, PR9, failed to pay £3,564.00 to 1 worker.    
208. St John’s Road Garage Limited, Dartford, DA2, failed to pay £3,525.63 to 1 worker.    
209. Alanya Catering Ltd, Nottingham, NG1, failed to pay £3,489.42 to 7 workers.    
210. Care Direct Group Limited, Eastbourne, BN21, failed to pay £3,484.98 to 35 workers.    
211. Baudelaire Limited, Alresford , SO24, failed to pay £3,454.06 to 1 worker.    
212. House Of Glamour Limited, East Dulwich, SE22, failed to pay £3,433.06 to 1 worker.    
213. Oshibori Scotland Ltd, Dundee, DD1, failed to pay £3,328.44 to 5 workers.    
214. Yatab Company Ltd, Rainham, RM13, failed to pay £3,292.77 to 7 workers.    
215. Cheeky Monkey Day Nurseries Limited, Birmingham, B15, failed to pay £3,272.93 to 22 workers.    
216. S & W Developments Limited, Doncaster, DN5, failed to pay £3,253.46 to 1 worker.    
217. The Lady Cleaner Ltd, Eastbourne, BN23, failed to pay £3,233.28 to 26 workers.    
218. Mi Casa Care Ltd, Mansfield, NG19, failed to pay £3,221.07 to 23 workers.    
219. SNC-LAVALIN RAIL & TRANSIT LIMITED, Epsom, KT18, failed to pay £3,212.78 to 11 workers.    
220. Little Flowers Limited, Renfrew, PA4, failed to pay £3,162.05 to 1 worker.    
221. Little Ducklings Day Nursery (Garstang) Limited, Preston, PR3, failed to pay £3,157.18 to 1 worker.    
222. Fresh 75 Limited, Newport, PO30, failed to pay £3,132.90 to 1 worker.    
223. Excel Parking Services Limited, Sheffield, S9, failed to pay £3,124.95 to 14 workers.    
224. Mr Simon Foster and Mrs Jane Foster, Skipton, BD23, failed to pay £3,124.66 to 1 worker.    
225. Mr Daniel Jenkinson , Preston, PR1, failed to pay £3,104.72 to 1 worker.    
226. Spanners & Sparks (EK) Limited, Glasgow, G75, failed to pay £3,093.15 to 5 workers.    
227. Central Electrical Contracts Limited, Wolverhampton, WV6, failed to pay £3,086.28 to 5 workers.    
228. Branded Housewares Limited, Wolverhampton, WV2, failed to pay £3,066.72 to 4 workers.    
229. Valerie Anne Sheen , Honiton, EX14, failed to pay £3,057.10 to 18 workers.    
230. Rosebridge Private Day Nursery Limited, Wigan, WN1, failed to pay £3,056.94 to 19 workers.    
231. Elite Motors Bodyshop Limited, Northampton, NN5, failed to pay £3,055.68 to 8 workers.    
232. Roux Waterside Inn Limited, Bray, SL6, failed to pay £3,022.52 to 19 workers.    
233. P.B Services (Wales) Limited, Mountain Ash, CF45, failed to pay £3,008.30 to 2 workers.    
234. Lostock Hall Academy Trust, Preston, PR5, failed to pay £2,993.98 to 2 workers.    
235. Taylor Shaw Limited, Macclesfield, SK11, failed to pay £2,958.43 to 2 workers.    
236. Sage Hair Care (Salons) Limited, Cardiff, CF5, failed to pay £2,938.09 to 3 workers.    
237. Mr Andrew Petrou, Walworth, SE17, failed to pay £2,907.33 to 1 worker.    
238. Crystal Car Wash and Valeting Ltd, Loughborough, LE11, failed to pay £2,852.00 to 1 worker.    
239. KEYSIGNS LIMITED, Bellshill, ML4, failed to pay £2,851.78 to 4 workers.    
240. Centerplate UK Limited, Camden, WC1B, failed to pay £2,829.64 to 167 workers.    
241. MN Support Services Limited, Queens Park, W10, failed to pay £2,829.17 to 294 workers.    
242. Kirklees Active Leisure , Huddersfield, HD1, failed to pay £2,821.46 to 18 workers.    
243. Marsden Healthcare Limited, Nelson, BB9, failed to pay £2,811.05 to 22 workers.    
244. Mrs Michelle S Chandler, Birmingham, B44, failed to pay £2,806.72 to 2 workers.    
245. Jamie Stevens (Kensington) Ltd, Kensington, W8, failed to pay £2,779.88 to 2 workers.    
246. Filco Supermarkets Limited, Llantwit Major, CF61, failed to pay £2,772.41 to 118 workers.    
247. AFH Ltd, Cardiff, CF24, failed to pay £2,771.99 to 4 workers.    
248. Ms Philippa Funnell, Dorking, RH5, failed to pay £2,746.65 to 2 workers.    
249. Kids at Heart (Harrogate) Limited, Knaresborough, HG5, failed to pay £2,746.08 to 3 workers.    
250. Sparkle Cleaning Co. (London) Limited, Croydon, CR5, failed to pay £2,732.94 to 25 workers.    
251. Lexington Catering Limited, Camden, EC4N, failed to pay £2,714.52 to 64 workers.    
252. What A Hoot Day Nursery Limited, Blyth, NE24, failed to pay £2,712.53 to 4 workers.    
253. Mr Andy B Fitzsimmons, Mr Ford B Fitzsimmons and Mrs Theresa G Fitzsimmons, Kilwinning, KA13, failed to pay £2,694.78 to 15 workers.    
254. QSO Ltd, Leeds, LS4, failed to pay £2,675.41 to 10 workers.    
255. Parkers Pets Limited, Southsea, PO5, failed to pay £2,665.49 to 2 workers.    
256. Kazoku Restaurant Group Ltd, Sevenoaks, TN13, failed to pay £2,665.15 to 1 worker.    
257. Madames Hair & Beauty Limited, Swindon, SN3, failed to pay £2,656.41 to 1 worker.    
258. Acerta Group Limited , Warwick, CV34, failed to pay £2,629.00 to 13 workers.    
259. London Auto Parts Limited, Wembley, HA0, failed to pay £2,622.17 to 2 workers.    
260. Killan Structural Limited, Oldham, OL3, failed to pay £2,620.45 to 2 workers.    
261. Sandersons (N.W.) Ltd, Blackpool, FY4, failed to pay £2,603.82 to 3 workers.    
262. A & K Home Care Services Ltd, Napton, CV47, failed to pay £2,603.14 to 78 workers.    
263. Chaplins Hotel Limited, Blackpool, FY1, failed to pay £2,586.56 to 2 workers.    
264. Calmac Developments Limited, Dumfries, DG2, failed to pay £2,583.77 to 17 workers.    
265. La Reserve Aparthotel (Manchester) Limited, Manchester, M1, failed to pay £2,567.66 to 13 workers.    
266. Ultimate Stores Limited, London, NW1, failed to pay £2,560.34 to 4 workers.    
267. Drayton Manor Resort Limited, Tamworth, B78, failed to pay £2,559.58 to 25 workers.    
268. Community Foundation, Birmingham, B19, failed to pay £2,500.24 to 2 workers.    
269. D and G Pub Company Limited, Darlington, DL3, failed to pay £2,498.17 to 35 workers.    
270. Poplars Blossoms Nursery School Limited, Nottingham, NG5, failed to pay £2,494.39 to 1 worker.    
271. Vonsung Limited, Islington, EC1Y, failed to pay £2,485.20 to 1 worker.    
272. Cornish Premier Pasties Limited, Newquay, TR9, failed to pay £2,467.45 to 53 workers.    
273. The Clansmans Rest Ltd, Glasgow, G40, failed to pay £2,417.22 to 3 workers.    
274. Natural Care 53 Limited, Manchester, M12, failed to pay £2,412.03 to 1 worker.    
275. TKE Landscaping Ltd, Wendens Ambo, CB11, failed to pay £2,403.16 to 3 workers.    
276. Mockingbird Lane Ltd, Glasgow, G11, failed to pay £2,387.07 to 1 worker.    
277. Mr Patrick G Neilan, Glasgow, G43, failed to pay £2,383.29 to 2 workers.    
278. Brean Leisure Park Ltd, Berrow, Burnham-on-Sea, TA8, failed to pay £2,371.57 to 12 workers.    
279. Davidsons Plumbing & Heating Limited , Bristol, BS5, failed to pay £2,349.54 to 4 workers.    
280. Motor Body Centre Limited, Birmingham, B18, failed to pay £2,346.49 to 1 worker.    
281. S & S Care (UK) Limited, Caergwrle, LL12, failed to pay £2,340.72 to 49 workers.    
282. Kelton Nursery, Liverpool, L18, failed to pay £2,334.79 to 10 workers.    
283. Asset India Limited, Harrow, HA1, failed to pay £2,334.54 to 2 workers.    
284. Safegas UK Ltd, Swinton, M27, failed to pay £2,277.54 to 1 worker.    
285. Mert GB 2 Limited, East Ham, E6, failed to pay £2,261.38 to 1 worker.    
286. Hallwell Projects Ltd, Plymouth, PL1, failed to pay £2,211.32 to 3 workers.    
287. Mr Andrew Roy Milward, Pembroke Dock, SA72, failed to pay £2,205.31 to 1 worker.    
288. R & R Retail UK Limited, Luton, LU4, failed to pay £2,201.05 to 16 workers.    
289. Salon IPS Ltd, Ipswich, IP4, failed to pay £2,189.12 to 1 worker.    
290. Mr Narinder Kumar Nar, Birmingham, B18, failed to pay £2,173.86 to 2 workers.    
291. Old Mill Holiday Park Limited, St Helens, PO33, failed to pay £2,172.06 to 1 worker.    
292. Ms Caroline Wright, Birmingham, B43, failed to pay £2,170.63 to 1 worker.    
293. Dolphin Care (IOW) Limited, Wroxall Ventnor, PO38, failed to pay £2,155.09 to 6 workers.    
294. Whistledown Inn Limited, Newry, BT34, failed to pay £2,154.29 to 46 workers.    
295. Renegade Hair Studio Limited, Leeds, LS2, failed to pay £2,148.74 to 1 worker.    
296. Lethendy Cheltenham Limited, Cheltenham, GL53, failed to pay £2,144.90 to 44 workers.    
297. Heminstone Estates Limited, Colchester, CO2, failed to pay £2,137.35 to 10 workers.    
298. S Leicester Ltd, Leicester, LE5, failed to pay £2,127.17 to 38 workers.    
299. GB Vape Limited, Heckmondwike, WF16, failed to pay £2,119.82 to 7 workers.    
300. P McCarthy Limited, Brandon, IP27, failed to pay £2,108.75 to 9 workers.    
301. K. Foley Limited, Great Blakenham, NR2, failed to pay £2,104.81 to 94 workers.    
302. AGL Attractions Limited , Burnham-On-Sea, TA8, failed to pay £2,090.06 to 24 workers.    
303. Techlogico Limited, Knottingley, WF11, failed to pay £2,056.43 to 6 workers.    
304. Mr Iain Stewart Matheson, Paisley, PA1, failed to pay £2,036.50 to 6 workers.    
305. GLASGOW WATERLOO LIMITED, Glasgow, G2, failed to pay £2,020.36 to 41 workers.    
306. R J Ferguson Company Limited, Stewartstown, BT71, failed to pay £2,014.04 to 3 workers.    
307. Ms Susan Meheux, Southampton, SO31, failed to pay £2,008.66 to 12 workers.    
308. Mr David Odudu, Sheffield, S9, failed to pay £1,992.53 to 1 worker.    
309. Mr Hazar Ibrahim Hamid, Doncaster, DN5, failed to pay £1,961.64 to 5 workers.    
310. M&C Jones Building Contractors Limited, Rhyl, LL18, failed to pay £1,954.46 to 2 workers.    
311. Hi-Spec Facilities Services Ltd, Dartford, DA2, failed to pay £1,938.75 to 96 workers.    
312. Calibre Building & Decorating Services Limited, Lichfield, WS13, failed to pay £1,937.89 to 1 worker.    
313. CPM Electrical Ltd, Omagh, BT79, failed to pay £1,937.71 to 4 workers.    
314. Ashbrook Roofing & Supplies Limited, Nr Matlock, DE4, failed to pay £1,912.65 to 5 workers.    
315. Mr Thomas Hutchison, Prestonpans, EH32, failed to pay £1,901.44 to 1 worker.    
316. Mr Khalid Javid, Chester, CH2, failed to pay £1,891.42 to 1 worker.    
317. South Golden Mountain Limited, Eastbourne, BN21, failed to pay £1,888.52 to 1 worker.    
318. Oldbury Grange Nursing Home Ltd, Nuneaton, CV10, failed to pay £1,878.02 to 65 workers.    
319. OC Electric Limited, Benton, NE12, failed to pay £1,869.32 to 1 worker.    
320. Seagrave Decorations Limited, Kettering, NN16, failed to pay £1,847.76 to 4 workers.    
321. Little Angels Fun Club and Nursery Limited, Bedlington, NE22, failed to pay £1,832.96 to 92 workers.    
322. GAPJ Ivinghoe Ltd, Leighton Buzzard, LU7, failed to pay £1,828.25 to 5 workers.    
323. Vapour C Co Ltd, Gillingham, ME7, failed to pay £1,822.57 to 2 workers.    
324. Wide Range Services Limited, Hull, HU12, failed to pay £1,816.72 to 1 worker.    
325. Hughes (Family Bakers) Holdings Limited, Bradford, BD18, failed to pay £1,811.57 to 26 workers.    
326. A W Pettitt Limited, Windermere, LA23, failed to pay £1,810.90 to 5 workers.    
327. Smartway Holding Limited, Holloway, N7, failed to pay £1,800.00 to 1 worker.    
328. Beaux Health and Wellbeing Ltd, Taunton, TA1, failed to pay £1,791.96 to 1 worker.    
329. Saggiomo Luxury Foods Limited, Croydon, CR0, failed to pay £1,787.60 to 1 worker.    
330. John Clark (Holdings) Limited , Aberdeen, AB12, failed to pay £1,785.63 to 5 workers.    
331. Swiftclean (UK) Limited, Southend-on-Sea, SS2, failed to pay £1,761.48 to 5 workers.    
332. Reachout Healthcare Limited, Stockport, SK5, failed to pay £1,757.42 to 31 workers.    
333. Mr Ian T Henderson, Accrington, BB5, failed to pay £1,740.90 to 2 workers.    
334. Clarke Group Construction Limited, Wyberton, PE21, failed to pay £1,736.49 to 1 worker.    
335. MRB Cleaning Limited, Swansea, SA1, failed to pay £1,733.88 to 1 worker.    
336. Mr John Fulton Allen & Mr John Gary King,  Strabane, BT82, failed to pay £1,725.59 to 1 worker.    
337. Belmont Hotel (Leicester) Limited, Leicester, LE1, failed to pay £1,710.28 to 36 workers.    
338. Mini Me Private Day Nursery Limited, Newport, NP19, failed to pay £1,708.33 to 15 workers.    
339. Glow Trade Ltd, Leicester, LE5, failed to pay £1,706.46 to 20 workers.    
340. Mr Jason Hearn, Taunton, TA1, failed to pay £1,706.12 to 2 workers.    
341. Country Park Leisure Limited, Hessle, HU13, failed to pay £1,705.13 to 13 workers.    
342. C & C Precision Engineering Services Limited, Rowley Regis, B65, failed to pay £1,704.30 to 1 worker.    
343. Karen Jeffrey , Wishaw, ML2, failed to pay £1,683.58 to 4 workers.    
344. DNA Cleaning Solutions Limited, Twickenham, TW2, failed to pay £1,670.29 to 25 workers.    
345. Assured Care (Stockport) Ltd., Stockport, SK1, failed to pay £1,666.57 to 79 workers.    
346. Graylaw International Freight Group Ltd, Skelmersdale, WN8, failed to pay £1,663.46 to 7 workers.    
347. SPI Trading Limited, Lisburn , BT28, failed to pay £1,656.74 to 3 workers.    
348. Executive Hire Ltd., Glasgow, G74, failed to pay £1,650.54 to 3 workers.    
349. Accelerate Cleaning Solutions Ltd, Ipswich, IP7, failed to pay £1,650.38 to 106 workers.    
350. LGH Plumbing & Heating Services Limited, Leigh, WN7, failed to pay £1,624.77 to 1 worker.    
351. Samuel Eales Silverware Limited, Sheffield, S3, failed to pay £1,619.79 to 1 worker.    
352. High Grove Beds Limited, Liversedge, WF15, failed to pay £1,610.43 to 8 workers.    
353. Shakes n Cakes Aberdeen Ltd, Aberdeen, AB24, failed to pay £1,597.98 to 1 worker.    
354. Bespoke Cuisine Ltd, Bethnal Green, EC1V, failed to pay £1,587.04 to 1 worker.    
355. Mascallkelly Limited, Cleveland, TS12, failed to pay £1,576.59 to 19 workers.    
356. Sher Gill Enterprises Limited, Dunoon, PA23, failed to pay £1,557.58 to 1 worker.    
357. Ms Hiromi Sato, London, SW4, failed to pay £1,551.71 to 2 workers.    
358. R.Loughlin Electrical Services Ltd, Castlederg, BT81, failed to pay £1,542.58 to 3 workers.    
359. Papermoon Nurseries (Boultham Park) Limited, Lincoln, LN6, failed to pay £1,535.25 to 11 workers.    
360. SB Rom Food Center Ltd, Hounslow, TW3, failed to pay £1,533.80 to 9 workers.    
361. Mr Robert Pontefract, Stamford, PE9, failed to pay £1,531.55 to 1 worker.    
362. Grant Leisure Group Limited, Blackpool, FY3, failed to pay £1,495.62 to 15 workers.    
363. Everbright Lodge Ltd, Llangollen, LL20, failed to pay £1,475.07 to 25 workers.    
364. Biscuit Clothing Ltd, Edinburgh, EH10, failed to pay £1,469.89 to 1 worker.    
365. Brockencote Hall Hotel Limited, Leamington Spa, CV33, failed to pay £1,468.25 to 19 workers.    
366. Mr Francis Joseph McParland and Mr Peter Liam McParland , Armagh, BT61, failed to pay £1,466.04 to 4 workers.    
367. Colemans Garden Centre Ltd, Templepatrick, BT39, failed to pay £1,450.11 to 35 workers.    
368. Southcoast Homecare Ltd, Chichester, PO19, failed to pay £1,438.93 to 9 workers.    
369. Booth & Stirland Limited, Ripley, DE5, failed to pay £1,434.97 to 3 workers.    
370. Grieve Decor Limited, Berwick Upon Tweed, TD15, failed to pay £1,415.11 to 2 workers.    
371. Barry Tyre Centre Limited, Barry, CF63, failed to pay £1,408.88 to 1 worker.    
372. Piddle Brewery Limited, Dorchester, DT2, failed to pay £1,407.79 to 1 worker.    
373. Forseti Law Ltd, Bolton, BL1, failed to pay £1,403.87 to 1 worker.    
374. Wash Me Clean Ltd, Bracknell, RG12, failed to pay £1,400.27 to 1 worker.    
375. Colonnade (Operator) Limited, Little Venice, W9, failed to pay £1,385.11 to 1 worker.    
376. Mario Gianni Limited, Stockport, SK7, failed to pay £1,378.94 to 3 workers.    
377. Moyo’s Brothers Limited, Brighton, BN1, failed to pay £1,373.14 to 2 workers.    
378. Atticus Cleaning Services Limited, Altrincham, WA14, failed to pay £1,364.89 to 1 worker.    
379. Mrs Jane Boome and Miss Verity Jane Boome, Peterborough, PE7, failed to pay £1,360.84 to 13 workers.    
380. Get Grip Auto Ltd, Cheltenham, GL53, failed to pay £1,348.25 to 2 workers.    
381. Downs Holdings Limited, Yarm, TS15, failed to pay £1,339.48 to 8 workers.    
382. Direct Cleaning Services (Oxford) Limited, Weston-Super-Mare, BS22, failed to pay £1,323.74 to 1 worker.    
383. Viv Designs Ltd, Gravesend, DA12, failed to pay £1,317.95 to 1 worker.    
384. Sycamore Farm Park Limited, Skegness, PE24, failed to pay £1,311.54 to 2 workers.    
385. SMK Building & Joinery Contractors Ltd, Todmorden, OL14, failed to pay £1,297.16 to 1 worker.    
386. Richard Tate Limited, Leeds, LS10, failed to pay £1,294.02 to 1 worker.    
387. JDP Hotels Ltd, Wakefield, WF2, failed to pay £1,289.98 to 34 workers.    
388. Miss Abby Fox, Widnes, WA8, failed to pay £1,270.35 to 10 workers.    
389. Polish Village Bakery Ltd, Manchester , M17, failed to pay £1,267.37 to 43 workers.    
390. ENERGY DUNDEE 4 U LTD , Dundee, DD4, failed to pay £1,263.65 to 15 workers.    
391. Synvestment Ltd, High Wycombe, HP12, failed to pay £1,262.39 to 2 workers.    
392. Peony Culture Communication Limited, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1, failed to pay £1,247.02 to 1 worker.    
393. Easy Clean Contractors Limited, Peterborough, PE7, failed to pay £1,246.92 to 125 workers.    
394. R Binks Construction Limited, Bolton, BL2, failed to pay £1,244.33 to 3 workers.    
395. Mrs Julie Shaw, Knaresborough, HG5, failed to pay £1,231.68 to 20 workers.    
396. Mrs Karaimjit Gill, Barry, CF63, failed to pay £1,230.73 to 1 worker.    
397. Mcaleer & McGarrity Ltd, Cookstown, BT80, failed to pay £1,207.77 to 2 workers.    
398. M.P.M Consumer Products Limited, Manchester, M11, failed to pay £1,205.73 to 32 workers.    
399. K.L.N. Limited , Brent, NW6, failed to pay £1,203.83 to 2 workers.    
400. GMD SERVICES LIMITED, Kingston Upon Hull, HU3, failed to pay £1,193.24 to 2 workers.    
401. C.V.East Ltd, Colchester , CO1, failed to pay £1,185.68 to 7 workers.    
402. Mr Jonathan Hope and Mr Charlie Hope, Slough, SL3, failed to pay £1,183.12 to 3 workers.    
403. Belshaw Bookkeeping Services Limited, Bacup, OL13, failed to pay £1,179.76 to 1 worker.    
404. D Allen Transport Limited, St Helens, WA9, failed to pay £1,178.73 to 4 workers.    
405. Mrs S & Mr G Clough, Bradford, BD12, failed to pay £1,162.79 to 1 worker.    
406. Golden Cue Snooker Club Limited, Bilston, WV14, failed to pay £1,147.43 to 1 worker.    
407. South Wales Building and Construction Limited, Newport, NP11, failed to pay £1,135.47 to 2 workers.    
408. Form Communal Maintenance Limited, Hartford, CW8, failed to pay £1,131.97 to 1 worker.    
409. SMS Bars Limited, Stockport, SK1, failed to pay £1,115.11 to 2 workers.    
410. Grace Construction and Management Ltd, Derby, DE1, failed to pay £1,113.49 to 1 worker.    
411. Alveston House Hotel Limited, Thornbury, BS35, failed to pay £1,109.12 to 1 worker.    
412. Mrs Pearl Moore, Blackpool, FY4, failed to pay £1,094.75 to 3 workers.    
413. Think Wraps Ltd, Poole, BH12, failed to pay £1,053.08 to 1 worker.    
414. Telebizz Ltd, Plymouth, PL7, failed to pay £1,048.56 to 72 workers.    
415. Hill Top Day Nursery Limited, Swadlincote, DE12, failed to pay £1,041.04 to 2 workers.    
416. W. Corbett & Co. (Galvanizing) Limited, Telford, TF7, failed to pay £1,039.53 to 36 workers.    
417. Autocare (Benfleet) Limited, Stanford-Le-Hope, SS17, failed to pay £1,032.23 to 2 workers.    
418. Pork Farms Limited, Nottingham, NG2, failed to pay £1,029.77 to 9 workers.    
419. Galdin Limited, Hackney, N1, failed to pay £1,024.50 to 5 workers.    
420. Trinity Park Nursery Ltd, Craigavon, BT67, failed to pay £1,020.97 to 17 workers.    
421. Mr Thanabalasingam Ketheeswarathas and Mrs Sivasuki Ketheeswarathas, Ipswich, IP2, failed to pay £1,006.83 to 2 workers.    
422. G P H Carpentry Limited, Newquay, TR8, failed to pay £1,003.04 to 2 workers.    
423. Euro Car Wash (South East) Limited, Greenwich, SE7, failed to pay £992.56 to 3 workers.    
424. Mrs Melanie Elizabet Brown, Kirkcaldy, KY1, failed to pay £986.58 to 1 worker.    
425. A O Hand Car Wash & Valeting Ltd, Peckham, SE15, failed to pay £982.62 to 3 workers.    
426. Dash-Cae Limited, Oxford, OX14, failed to pay £976.19 to 1 worker.    
427. Janette Allen Limited, Braintree, CM77, failed to pay £976.18 to 1 worker.    
428. Ms Sarah Balfour, York, YO10, failed to pay £967.87 to 1 worker.    
429. Allied Industrial Products Limited, Salford, M5, failed to pay £955.78 to 1 worker.    
430. Cummins Ltd, Darlington, DL1, failed to pay £954.04 to 11 workers.    
431. Ramsbottom Cricket Club, Bury, BL0, failed to pay £931.67 to 2 workers.    
432. Soughton Shoot Limited, Northop, Mold,, CH7, failed to pay £927.24 to 1 worker.    
433. Mrs Penni Durdy, Doncaster, DN9, failed to pay £924.04 to 1 worker.    
434. Friends Care Agency Limited, Sandy, SG19, failed to pay £923.84 to 20 workers.    
435. French Connection UK Limited, Camden, NW1, failed to pay £917.95 to 57 workers.    
436. Precision Workwear Limited, Stamford, PE9, failed to pay £916.35 to 1 worker.    
437. Joinex Joinery Express Limited, Brentford, TW8, failed to pay £882.61 to 12 workers.    
438. Yorkcloud Limited, Ulverston, LA12, failed to pay £872.20 to 2 workers.    
439. KR Scotland Ltd, Edinburgh, EH3, failed to pay £849.21 to 3 workers.    
440. The KLE (Berwick) Group Ltd, Berwick Upon Tweed, TD15, failed to pay £838.48 to 2 workers.    
441. Zig Zag Day Nursery Limited, Peterborough, PE1, failed to pay £827.98 to 21 workers.    
442. Birdies Day Nursery Limited, Lisburn, BT28, failed to pay £821.32 to 8 workers.    
443. Sooty Olive Ltd, Waterside, BT47, failed to pay £819.24 to 33 workers.    
444. Bright Bees Nursery Ltd, Leicester, LE4, failed to pay £817.06 to 1 worker.    
445. What The Fish Limited, Richmond upon Thames, SW14, failed to pay £801.08 to 1 worker.    
446. SFC (Edmonton) Limited, Enfield, N9, failed to pay £798.22 to 2 workers.    
447. Fairytales Day Nursery Limited, Dudley, DY2, failed to pay £793.38 to 7 workers.    
448. R.G.R. Garages (Cranfield) Limited, Bedford, MK43, failed to pay £791.65 to 1 worker.    
449. Mad Goose Catering Limited, Ellington, PE28, failed to pay £788.54 to 3 workers.    
450. Mr Grzegorz Biezunski, Trowbridge, BA14, failed to pay £787.80 to 1 worker.    
451. Futurerate Limited, Loughborough, LE12, failed to pay £787.20 to 1 worker.    
452. Kids Korner Day Nurseries Ltd, Belfast, BT6, failed to pay £779.81 to 23 workers.    
453. Inter County Cleaning Services Limited, Rushden, NN10, failed to pay £754.38 to 106 workers.    
454. Spring Clean Commercial Ltd, Norwich, NR16, failed to pay £753.17 to 107 workers.    
455. Clean Living Services Limited, Lambeth, SW8, failed to pay £749.48 to 16 workers.    
456. Le Petit Francais Ltd, Edinburgh, EH6, failed to pay £744.52 to 10 workers.    
457. Playworks Childcare Limited, Caerphilly, CF83, failed to pay £743.64 to 5 workers.    
458. Wickhambrook Stores Limited, Newmarket, CB8, failed to pay £729.88 to 1 worker.    
459. Rothco Independent Mortgages Ltd, Alnwick, NE66, failed to pay £729.83 to 1 worker.    
460. James David Segal, Hull, HU1, failed to pay £729.22 to 6 workers.    
461. Daniel Thwaites Public Limited Company, Blackburn, BB2, failed to pay £724.73 to 23 workers.    
462. HRUK Group of Companies Ltd, Leeds, LS8, failed to pay £719.11 to 1 worker.    
463. Historic Hotels & Properties Ltd, Scarborough, YO11, failed to pay £707.11 to 5 workers.    
464. Penge Car Care ltd, Croydon, SE25, failed to pay £682.48 to 2 workers.    
465. Craig Gordon Building Services Ltd, Edinburgh, EH11, failed to pay £680.17 to 1 worker.    
466. Mountview Hotels Ltd, Callander, FK17, failed to pay £672.60 to 1 worker.    
467. Paragon Quality Foods Ltd, Doncaster, DN3, failed to pay £670.56 to 21 workers.    
468. Core Electrical Solutions Ltd, Beckenham, BR3, failed to pay £658.78 to 2 workers.    
469. Snacks Van Ltd, Watford, WD25, failed to pay £658.20 to 1 worker.    
470. MacDonald Hotels (Management) Limited, Bathgate, EH48, failed to pay £648.78 to 1 worker.    
471. Kelly Teggin Hairdressing Ltd, Knaresborough, HG5, failed to pay £647.19 to 1 worker.    
472. Safe Gas (N.I.) Limited, Newtonabbey, BT36, failed to pay £639.10 to 1 worker.    
473. Harrison Wade Ltd, Manchester, M1, failed to pay £636.04 to 2 workers.    
474. Spectrum Energy Guard Ltd, Bournemouth, BH1, failed to pay £621.72 to 1 worker.    
475. Gastronomy Foods UK Limited, Shrewsbury, SY1, failed to pay £618.76 to 51 workers.    
476. Jobseekrs Limited, Manchester, M15, failed to pay £613.88 to 1 worker.    
477. Stepping-Stones-Services Limited, Rochdale, OL11, failed to pay £611.13 to 19 workers.    
478. Tramp Hair Boutique Limited, Stockport, SK1, failed to pay £610.40 to 1 worker.    
479. Emporio Fashion Ltd, Leicester, LE5, failed to pay £608.85 to 18 workers.    
480. Halton Concrete Ltd, Widnes, WA8, failed to pay £607.43 to 2 workers.    
481. Kanto Stranmillis Limited, Belfast, BT9, failed to pay £590.15 to 1 worker.    
482. Complete Payroll and Accountancy Limited, Altrincham, M33, failed to pay £584.24 to 1 worker.    
483. Flawless Cleaning Ltd, Smethwick, B66, failed to pay £582.02 to 1 worker.    
484. Al Halal Supermarket Limited , Bradford, BD7, failed to pay £581.64 to 7 workers.    
485. Max & Molly Limited, Wigan, WN3, failed to pay £579.96 to 1 worker.    
486. Happy Children Day Nursery Limited, Ballynahinch, BT24, failed to pay £573.74 to 12 workers.    
487. Jagard Valeting & Cleaning Services Ltd, Wellingborough, NN8, failed to pay £573.47 to 2 workers.    
488. 247 Convenience Store (Bury) Ltd, Bury, BL8, failed to pay £571.63 to 1 worker.    
489. The Race Horses Hotel Limited, Skipton, BD23, failed to pay £566.05 to 2 workers.    
490. Strategic Facilities Management Ltd, Leeds, LS17, failed to pay £561.18 to 3 workers.    
491. Mr C Saudin & Mrs P Saudin, Canterbury, CT1, failed to pay £560.48 to 2 workers.    
492. Golden Car Limited , Perivale, UB6, failed to pay £551.80 to 1 worker.    
493. Your Friendly Local Limited, Rotherham, S60, failed to pay £549.95 to 6 workers.    
494. Steven Boom, East Hunsbury, NN4, failed to pay £547.20 to 2 workers.    
495. M A Fashions Ltd, Leicester, LE5, failed to pay £545.60 to 17 workers.    
496. Comserv Contracting & Commercial Limited, Stoke-on-Trent, ST3, failed to pay £544.19 to 1 worker.    
497. Bonner Studs Limited, Walsall, WS2, failed to pay £537.45 to 1 worker.    
498. M & C Retail Limited, Darlington, DL1, failed to pay £537.36 to 4 workers.    
499. Legacy Resorts Limited, Newton Stewart, DG8, failed to pay £536.69 to 1 worker.    
500. E.K.S Living Clean Ltd, Norwich, NR6, failed to pay £533.58 to 5 workers.    
501. SC HCW Ltd, Belfast, BT5, failed to pay £533.54 to 7 workers.    
502. David Alexander Forbes, Inverurie, AB51, failed to pay £531.64 to 2 workers.    
503. Arunagiri UK LTD, Rickmansworth, WD3, failed to pay £530.92 to 2 workers.    
504. Millfield Haulage Limited, York, YO26, failed to pay £530.91 to 2 workers.    
505. Ardmore (Co. Derry) Pre-Cast Concrete Limited, Ardmore, BT47, failed to pay £525.69 to 1 worker.    
506. W1 Soho Ltd., Soho, W1D, failed to pay £523.20 to 1 worker.    
507. Shree Siddhi Limited, Glasgow, G66, failed to pay £515.76 to 7 workers.    
508. 41 Cars Hull Ltd, Hull, HU9, failed to pay £515.72 to 2 workers.    
509. Felix Inns Ltd, Solihull, B92, failed to pay £514.09 to 20 workers.    
510. Eastchurch Holiday Centre Limited, Eastchurch, ME12, failed to pay £511.70 to 1 worker.    
511. Surf N Turf Limited, Leicester, LE2, failed to pay £511.63 to 2 workers.    
512. Red House Garage Limited, St Helens, WA11, failed to pay £511.43 to 1 worker.    
513. Classic Decorators (UK) Limited, Barry, CF63, failed to pay £511.43 to 1 worker.    
514. John Codona’s Pleasure Fairs Limited, Aberdeen, AB24, failed to pay £505.82 to 3 workers.    
515. Timberquay Limited, Derry, BT48, failed to pay £503.98 to 14 workers.    
516. Ace Support FM Ltd, Barnet, N14, failed to pay £501.60 to 1 worker.    
517. Sleepwell (Cumbria) Limited, Barrow In Furness, LA14, failed to pay £500.95 to 1 worker.    
518. Blank Brixton Ltd, Brixton, SW2, failed to pay £287.31 to 1 worker.

Scotland’s Rural Regions Get Major Mobile Connectivity Boost

Thirteen upgraded masts to transform rural connectivity across the Scottish countryside

The UK Government has today [Wednesday 28 May] announced a significant boost to mobile connectivity across Scotland’s rural areas, with 13 mobile masts upgraded to provide coverage from all four mobile network operators.

Previously, these masts only connected EE customers and those making 999 calls. The upgrades will transform connectivity in remote areas of Scotland that have long suffered from poor signal.

The areas benefiting from the upgrades include Argyll and Bute, Ayrshire, and the South of Scotland – including parts of the Southern Upland Way.

This major connectivity improvement will cover an area equivalent to thousands of football pitches, providing reliable 4G service to residents and visitors in these remote communities.

The UK Government will upgrade over 50 existing mobile masts across England, Scotland and Wales including in UK’s most renowned natural parks, such as Snowdonia and Lake District.

Scottish Secretary Ian Murray said: “This significant mobile connectivity boost, funded by the UK Government, will help people in some of Scotland’s most rural communities.

“It will support local businesses, and improve access and safety for residents and visitors alike. Improving digital connectivity – including in our most remote communities – is a key part of the UK Government’s Plan for Change – it is vital to delivering jobs and economic growth. 

“And upgrading existing masts rather than building new ones, there will be minimal environmental impact in what are some of Scotland’s most scenic areas.”

The upgrades are part of the UK Government’s Shared Rural Network programme, a partnership with mobile network operators aimed at improving connectivity in rural areas throughout Britain. The programme has already delivered coverage to more than 95% of the UK’s landmass, with further improvements planned until early 2027.

The enhanced connectivity will bring numerous benefits to Scottish communities, from supporting local tourism and business opportunities to enabling more flexible working arrangements and improving access to essential online services.

Scotland areas are: 

  • Argyll, Bute and South Lochaber
  • Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock
  • Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk
  • Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale

Telecoms Minister Sir Chris Bryant said: “The growth potential of our areas of outstanding natural beauty must not be stunted by patchy internet.   

“This milestone is a major step forward for better connectivity for all corners of the UK meaning everyone can reap the benefits of the digital age. From boosting tourism and business opportunities to providing safer outdoors experiences for visitors to our treasured countryside.”

For more information on the Shared Rural Network please visit https://srn.org.uk/

Next generation of builders and carers ‘set to rebuild Britain’

Westminster government announces radical skills reforms giving young people opportunity to develop skills in priority areas for the country

Young people are set to benefit from 120,000 new training opportunities as part of a ‘radical skills revolution’, giving them the chance to develop skills where they are most needed across the workforce to rebuild Britain.

More skilled brickies, carpenters and healthcare support workers will soon be trained up as the UK Government continues it’s drive to get Britain working, with landmark reforms announced today that refocus the skills landscape towards young, domestic talent. 

The measures, backed by a record-breaking £3 billion apprenticeship budget, will open up opportunities for young people to succeed in careers the country vitally needs to prosper.

More routes into skilled work means more people building affordable homes, more care for NHS patients and more digital experts to push our economy forward. This includes an additional 30,000 apprenticeship starts across this Parliament. 

This unprecedented investment is a critical step in delivering the government’s Plan for Change mission to create a decade of national renewal. They say they are backing our young people and investing in skills as an engine of economic growth – putting more money in people’s back pockets and breaking down barriers to opportunity.

 Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said: “A skilled workforce is the key to steering the economy forward, and today we’re backing the next generation by giving young people more opportunities to learn a trade, earn a wage and achieve and thrive. 

“When we invest in skills for young people, we invest in a shared, stronger economic future – creating opportunities as part of our Plan for Change.

“But everyone has a role to play in a thriving economy, and we’re taking our responsibility seriously providing more routes into employment, it’s now the responsibility of young people to take them.”

To support this, the Westminster government is: 

  • Implementing a 32% increase in the Immigration Skills Charge, which will deliver up to 45,000 additional training places to upskill the domestic workforce and reduce reliance on migration in priority sectors. As announced in the recent Immigration White Paper.  
  • Refocusing funding away from Level 7 (masters-level) apprenticeships from January 2026, while maintaining support for those aged 16-21 and existing apprentices. This will enable levy funding to be rebalanced towards training at lower levels, where it can have the greatest impact.  
  • Launched 13 new Level 2 construction courses for adults in non-devolved areas under the Free Courses for Jobs scheme. 

In addition to the £3bn apprenticeship budget, the government is backing the new generation of workers through:  

  • £14 million of adult skills funding for construction to be devolved to local mayors for next academic year, expected to support up to 5,000 additional adult learners. 
  •  £136 million for Skills Bootcamps across a range of priority sectors in 2025-26, providing training to over 40,000 learners.  
  • £100 million over four years to expand Construction Skills Bootcamps. 
  • Ten Technical Excellence Colleges specialising in construction skills, opening in September 2025. 

 As part of the UK government’s Plan for Change, the reforms are a vital step in delivering our youth guarantee and addressing skills shortages to drive growth while creating better opportunities for young people and adults across England.  

Today’s announcement comes following a dramatic fall in the number of apprenticeship starts over the last decade, and as recent ONS statistics show as many as one in eight 16-24 year olds are not in employment, education or training.

New dawn for rail as South Western services return to public hands

  • Watershed moment is the beginning of the end of 30 years of fragmentation, frustration and poor performance
  • Starting with SWR, publicly owned services will need to meet tough performance standards to be rebranded Great British Railways
  • Kicks off a ‘total reset’ of the railways to improve performance and win back public trust, boosting economic growth as part of the Plan for Change

A small piece of history has been made today (25th May) as South Western Railway (SWR) services become the first to transfer back into public control under the new legislation, ending almost 30 years of fragmentation and waste under privatisation.

Great British Railways won’t just be the name of the new nationally owned railway, it symbolises a complete reset that will mark the high standard of service and delivery the public should expect to receive.

Speaking from South Western Railway’s depot in Bournemouth, the Transport Secretary was clear that operators will have to earn the right to be called “Great British Railways”.

Starting with SWR, each operator will have to meet rigorous, bespoke performance standards on things like punctuality, cancellation and passenger experience, so we can rebuild a world class public service.

Two thirds of Britons have already expressed their support for public ownership, which will save the taxpayer up to £150 million a year in fees alone and ensure every penny can be spent for the benefit of passengers.

Public ownership is a vital first step in kickstarting the cultural reset needed to instil a sense of pride back into the railways, moving away from 14 siloed train operators, each with their own staff, incentives and competing commercial motivations. A new nationally owned body – Great British Railways – will manage track and train, with a sole focus of delivering for the public. As set out in the King’s Speech, we will introduce legislation to create Great British Railways this session.

By bringing track and train together Great British Railways will enable operations to run more seamlessly, bringing accountability and reliability back into the railways and in turn helping to reduce delays and cancellations. This will get more people using our trains to travel to work, education and for leisure – boosting both the national and regional economies as part of the Government’s Plan for Change.

Secretary of State for Transport Heidi Alexander said: “Today is a watershed moment in our work to return the railways to the service of passengers. Trains from Waterloo to Weymouth, Bournemouth and Exeter, will be run by the public, for the public.

“But I know that most users of the railway don’t spend much time thinking about who runs the trains – they just want them to work. That’s why operators will have to meet rigorous performance standards and earn the right to be called Great British Railways.

“We have a generational opportunity to restore national pride in our railways and I will not waste it.”

This follows the passing of the Public Ownership Act in November – one of the first major pieces of legislation to be delivered under the current Westminster Government – showing its commitment to putting an end to unreliable services and private profiteering at the expense of passengers.

All passenger services operating under contracts with the Department will return to public ownership by the end of 2027 and will eventually be integrated into Great British Railways. Services are being transferred after contracts reach the end of their minimum term, or where they can be ended early, ensuring taxpayers pay no additional costs for breaking contracts.

Lawrence Bowman, Managing Director of Southern Western Railway said: “I’m excited to join and lead the excellent team at South Western Railway, who come to work every day to deliver the best possible service for our customers, and moving into public ownership will make it easier for them to do so.

“My immediate priority is to work with colleagues to develop a plan for SWR, that will make the most of the new simpler industry processes to deliver improvements in reliability and an increase in capacity.

“Over the coming years I will focus on ensuring SWR moves into Great British Railways as a truly integrated industry-leading operation that delivers an excellent service to its passengers and the local communities we serve.”

Ben Plowden, Chief Executive of Campaign for Better Transport, said: “Today marks a turning point for Britain’s railways and it’s good to see the Government’s plans for reforming the railways continuing at pace.

“The creation of Great British Railways presents a once in a generation opportunity to change how the rail system works – structurally, financially and operationally – and put passengers and freight operators first.”

To commemorate this historic moment, the Secretary of State also unveiled a new coming soon logo on what will be the first publicly owned South Western Railway service to leave Waterloo at 06.14 today [Sunday 25 May], reiterating that our railways are coming back into the hands of the public.

Today [Sunday 25 May] digital screens at Waterloo will display the new ‘coming soon’ logo from 06.00 and a special Tannoy announcement celebrating the first publicly owned SWR service leaving the station. Displays at other SWR stations will also show the new ‘coming soon’ logo from today.

Scotland’s ScotRail service was re-nationalised on 1 April 2022.

Animal welfare rules in British zoos set for major overhaul

New Zoo Standards will enhance welfare and protections for animals in UK’s zoos and aquariums

Major update in rules for keeping animals in zoos as government introduces new standards which will ensure the UK’s famous zoos remain global leaders in the zoo industry.

Larger habitat enclosures for elephants, better training for staff to handle exotic animals, and improved public safety measures will be required as part of the new Standards of Modern Zoo Practice for Great Britain, published today (Saturday 24th May)  

For the first time in over a decade, the rules protecting Great Britain’s most loved zoo animals such as the majestic snowy owl and golden eagle, iconic elephants, and wonders of the sea like sting rays and octopus will be modernised to reflect the very latest in zoo best practice:

  • Larger habitats will be introduced for elephants to better replicate the large territories elephants naturally inhabit.
  • The practice of tethering birds of prey as a method of long term accommodation will be phased out, with a shift to large aviary enclosures.
  • Aquariums will no longer be allowed to let visitors touch fish and cephalopods – creatures such as ray and octopus are highly intelligent animals and handling causes them stress.   

Animal Welfare Minister, Baroness Hayman said:  “We are a nation of animal lovers, and our best zoos and aquariums are truly world leaders in setting the standard for how wild animals should be kept. 

“Today’s long-overdue reforms lay the foundation for an even stronger, even more compassionate future for all zoos and aquariums —and the animals they protect.  This is the first step as part of our commitment to deliver the most ambitious animal welfare reforms in a generation.

“We’re making sure all sectors have the tools they need thrive, which is vital in our mission to deliver economic growth and make lives better for people across the country under our Plan for Change.”

Cam Whitnall, Managing Director of The Big Cat Sanctuary and star of CBBC’s One Zoo Three, said:  “For too long, zoos have been misunderstood as places of entertainment, but these new standards make it unmistakably clear: modern, good zoos put wildlife first.

“They are hubs for conservation, education, and world-leading animal care. I’m proud to be part of the UK’s zoo, sanctuary and aquarium community, setting the global benchmark for the welfare of endangered species.

“This is a huge step forward and also a call to action for other countries to now raise their standards, so animals everywhere benefit from the same level of care, and we can align globally for wildlife.”

Dr Jo Judge, CEO of the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) which represents over 130 zoos and aquariums said: “The new standards are a significant step up in legal requirements and cement Britain’s position as a global leader for zoos and aquariums.

BIAZA members already lead the way in animal care and conservation and we have been working closely with Defra officials to realise these updated standards.

“We are delighted to see them published today, demonstrating government’s and the sector’s commitment to the highest levels of animal care, and helping empower zoos and aquariums to keep leading the fight for nature.”

Jamie Christon, CEO at Chester Zoo, said: “We were delighted to welcome the Zoos Minister, Baroness Hayman, to Chester Zoo for the official launch of the updated Secretary of State’s standards of modern zoo practice.

“These new standards set a clear vision for the future of zoos in the UK and we’re pleased to have worked closely with Defra to help shape them and ensure that they represent world class animal care.

Kathryn England, Chief Operating Officer for ZSL, the international conservation charity behind London and Whipsnade Zoos said: These standards will help bring the whole sector up to a level the public rightly expects – and that animals everywhere deserve.

“London and Whipsnade Zoos are conservation powerhouses, delivering world-leading animal care and driving global efforts to protect wildlife.

“We welcome these new Standards of Modern Zoo Practice and the clarity they bring – every animal in every UK zoo deserves the same high standard of care, and every zoo should be contributing meaningfully to conservation.”

Other measures in the Standards include:  

  • Improved conservation – Clear steps to help enforce conservation standards with new requirements for record keeping – helping drive up standards across the whole sector. This could include breeding programs for endangered species, research into animal behaviour and reproduction, and education to raise awareness about conservation issues. There will also be a curb on the sourcing of animals from the wild.  
  • Protecting the public – All zoos will need to ensure appropriate safety measures are in place if they want to keep dangerous animals, including double-gated entry systems, lone worker procedures, and the appropriate availability of firearms.
  • Updated business plans – To ensure zoos are prepared to protect animals in the event of financial hardship, they will now be required to develop clear business continuity plans  

There is a 2 year timeline on zoos and aquariums to adapt to the changes, with further phased timelines for some species-specific changes. This gives enough time to implement the changes efficiently, while support and guidance will be available -keeping welfare at the heart of zoo operations.  

These changes, part of the wider Plan for Change, will modernise the way animals are cared for in zoos and aquariums and reaffirm the UK’s position as a global leader in ethical and responsible wildlife management. The new published standards are available from today on gov.uk.

First Minister calls for national mission to raise living standards

Swinney says Winter Fuel Payment must be restored

The UK needs a national mission to raise living standards and provide people with hope that things will get easier, starting with the restoration of a Winter Fuel Payment to all pensioner households, First Minister John Swinney has said.

Speaking ahead of talks with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer in London, the First Minister said he will press for action to help people struggling with the ongoing cost of living crisis, amid increasing inflation and international economic instability.

Mr Swinney said the first action of the UK Government must be to accept the cut to the Winter Fuel Payment was wrong and announce a restoration so all pensioners get a payment.

The First Minster said people need to believe things can get easier and that he plans to raise specific concerns relating to Scotland’s economy with the Prime Minister which could help accelerate economic growth.

This includes the impact on Scotland of the recently announced UK-US trade deal, the agreement reached with the European Union, Carbon Capture and the case for a bespoke migration policy for Scotland.

Mr Swinney will be in London for a programme of meetings, including a bilateral with the Prime Minister, a multilateral with the First Minister of Wales, First Minister and deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland, and a plenary session of the Council of Nations and Regions.

First Minister John Swinney said: “People across the UK are living through a period of huge uncertainty and for some, that is undermining the trust they have in government.

“Cutting the winter fuel payment saw the UK Government breaking promises and removing vital financial support for some of the most vulnerable in our society. Having effectively conceded the argument by announcing a partial U-turn, the Prime Minister should accept the cut was wrong and restore a universal winter fuel payment.

“In Scotland, we are introducing universal winter heating payments through our Cost of Living Guarantee. This will see payment made to all pensioner households, with the poorest receiving the most support which is fair amid ongoing pressures.

“If the UK government want to provide people with hope that things will get easier, the Prime Minister should restore the winter fuel payment as part of a new national mission to raise living standards.

“I will raise this issue with him alongside other critical issues, including our proposal for a Scottish Graduate Visa, Carbon Capture and what impacts recent trade deals will have on Scottish producers and businesses.

“We are willing to work with him and the UK Government, but the question is whether he is willing to work with Scotland and give people hope that a better future is possible.”

The First Minister will hold bilateral talks with the Prime Minister in London today – Friday 23 May.

The First Minister is then due to join the First Minister of Wales, the First Minister and Deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland for further talks, before joining a meeting of the UK Government’s Council of Nations and Regions.  

Grangemouth workers receive ‘training guarantee’

  • Over 260 workers have received 1:1 skills support from Forth Valley College to support their transition into new, high-skilled jobs, with 184 workers already beginning training   
  • signals swift delivery of the Prime Minister’s commitment to a ‘training guarantee’ to secure a future for workers, as part of the Plan for Change  
  • Energy Secretary and Energy Minister join Scottish Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy in first Grangemouth Investment Taskforce meeting today to discuss securing private investment and a long-term future for Grangemouth – backed by £200 million from the UK government, and £25 million from the Scottish Government   

Petroineos refinery workers at Grangemouth are being actively supported through the Prime Minister’s commitment to a ‘training guarantee’ to help secure new well-paid work, as part of the UK and Scottish Governments’ pledge to secure a future for those affected by the closure of the oil refinery.   

The government took swift action to protect workers after Petroineos confirmed their plans to close the refinery, including announcing up to £10 million to provide new skills support that will help the site’s workers into good clean energy jobs, as well as supporting new energy projects in the region. This also included a commitment from the Prime Minister in February to deliver a “training guarantee”.  

This guarantee is now being delivered, with 184 out of 300 workers having now engaged in retraining activity with the majority of the remaining workforce registered for training.  

Workers have been offered a wide range of training opportunities, including renewable energy upskilling courses and wind turbine engineering courses, paid for and supported by the UK and Scottish Governments. This will provide them with the vital skills needed to secure new jobs, including in the clean energy sector – which currently supports more than 42,000 jobs in Scotland.   

Every Petroineos worker affected by the decision to close the oil refinery has now been provided the opportunity for 1:1 interviews with careers specialists at Forth Valley College.  

These will help identify their skills, qualifications and training needs to create a programme of bespoke courses that will ensure their smooth transition into new roles – supporting the next generation of good jobs and driving economic growth as part of the government’s Plan for Change.  

It comes as the Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, Scottish Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy Gillian Martin and Energy Minister Michael Shanks join the Office for Investment, Scottish Enterprise, National Wealth Fund and Scottish National Investment Bank for the inaugural Grangemouth Investment Taskforce meeting today where they will discuss securing private investment in the future of the site – with 66 enquiries received so far.  

Minister for Energy Michael Shanks said: “The workforce at Grangemouth is highly skilled with significant transferrable experience which our training commitment recognises by providing tailored support for workers into new employment opportunities. 

“As well as continuing to work to secure the site’s long-term industrial future, we want to ensure no worker is left behind and that they are equipped with the skills they need to secure good jobs. This is our Plan for Change in action.”

Acting Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy Gillian Martin said: “The Scottish Government’s immediate focus has rightly been on supporting workers who have lost their jobs. We committed up to £450,000 to ensure that they are supported and assisted to secure other employment and to contribute their valuable skills to Scotland’s green economy.  

“That is why we are also working to secure Grangemouth’s role in that future and create an investible industrial strategy for the site. It’s clear that real progress is being made on the findings from Project Willow.

“We are working closely with Scottish Enterprise – who are already assessing nearly 70 inquiries aligned to the full range of technologies set out in the report – and we are determined to ensure we realise the full potential for the site’s transformation.”

Scottish Secretary Ian Murray said: “We know this is a worrying time for workers and their families at Grangemouth. I am pleased more than 260 highly skilled workers have already received support from Forth Valley College thanks to funding from the UK government as part of the £100 million Falkirk and Grangemouth Growth Deal package. 

“By offering bespoke training in renewable energy and wind turbine engineering, we’re not just supporting individual workers but also helping Scotland lead the way in clean energy jobs.

“We are determined that Grangemouth will have a green energy future and have committed £200 million through the National Wealth Fund toward that.”

Kenny MacInnes, Principal of Forth Valley College, said: “The College continues to work extremely hard to make sure that all the Petroineos employees affected by the refinery closure, are able to access the support they need as they begin their transition into new training, careers and jobs.  

“We are making learning work in our Forth Valley communities and beyond, and we want to assure everyone that we will continue to be there for them as they take the next steps in their careers and their studies. 

Steven Bell, former Hazardous Areas Technician at Petroineos Grangemouth Refinery, said: “The support I received from Forth Valley College with retraining during the redundancy process has been exceptional.  

“From my 1:1 meetings discussing courses that I would be interested in and what my future career path might be, right through to getting booked onto the courses I had selected, nothing was too much trouble.  

“All in all, I can say I am absolutely delighted with what Forth Valley College have provided for me during this process.”

The training support has helped workers enter new employment. For example, former Hazardous Areas Technician Steven Bell took part in a range of courses that enabled him to renew his Electricians Grade Card, as well as courses in working in hazardous areas which will support him in his new role as a Compliance Supervisor with a company involved in the pharmaceutical and distillery sector.  

It follows the publication of a feasibility report ‘Project Willow’ that provided nine proposals for Grangemouth, backed by £200 million from the UK government and £25 million from the Scottish Government, which will support jobs, unlock investment and drive growth.  

The report sets out various options for the site, including plastics recycling, hydrogen production and other projects that could create up to 800 jobs by 2040. This will help to grow the economy and deliver on both governments’ shared ambition to secure a long-term future for Grangemouth – with Scottish Enterprise already receiving a high level of interest from potential investors.  

The UK government is unlocking Scotland’s clean energy potential and recently awarded £55.7 million to the Port of Cromarty Firth to develop and manufacture new floating offshore wind farms in Scotland.

It has also launched a Skills Passport to support oil and gas workers to identify routes into several roles in offshore wind including construction and maintenance.

‘An affront to devolution’: Scottish Government reacts to UK-EU deal

Fishing deal puts any benefits “at risk”

External Affairs Secretary Angus Robertson has welcomed the closer co-operation between the UK and the EU following a series of new agreements but said not involving the Scottish Government in any negotiations was “an affront to devolution”.

In a statement to the Scottish Parliament, Mr Robertson said the removal of obstacles to food and agricultural exports, greater support for energy trading and the UK rejoining the Erasmus exchange scheme for students, were all positive aspects of the UK-EU agreement.

But Mr Robertson criticised the lack of consultation with the Scottish Government on key aspects of the deal, particularly on fishing.

He said: “The Scottish Government welcomes the agreement as it represents long-overdue momentum in rebuilding our relationship with the European Union. But no agreement can deliver the economic, social and security benefits we lost with Brexit in 2020.

“We argued for an ambitious package in the interests of people and businesses across Scotland, and there are some positive indicators here, including the agriculture, food and drink agreement which will reduce market barriers; and enhanced cooperation on energy and climate, and a clear intention to rejoin the Erasmus exchange programme.

“The fact that this agreement – not least on fisheries – was reached without the explicit engagement of the devolved governments on the negotiation detail is not just an affront to devolution, it has put at risk, and will continue to put at risk, the benefits of any commitments for the people of Scotland.”

He added: “We still believe Scotland’s best future lies as an independent country within the European Union but we will engage constructively and positively in the next phase of negotiations.

“We also hope to see the UK Government work collaboratively with devolved governments in developing its priorities – as the EU does with its Member States.”

Tracy Gilbert MP Welcomes UK-EU Deal as Major Win for Edinburgh North and Leith’s Young People and Businesses

Tracy Gilbert, Member of Parliament for Edinburgh North and Leith, has welcomed a landmark new agreement between the UK and the European Union.

The Agreement includes:

  • Trade Boost for Local Businesses: Red tape is being slashed on food and drink exports, helping local producers and potentially lowering prices for families. British steel exports, important to Scottish industry, are now protected from new EU tariffs, saving the sector millions.
  • Opportunities for Young People: Steps have been taken to rejoin the Erasmus programme and launch a new UK-EU youth mobility scheme, which would allow young people to travel, work, and study more freely across Europe.
  • Climate and Green Economy Gains: The UK and EU will link their emissions trading schemes, helping British businesses avoid new EU carbon taxes while driving green growth.
  • Travel Made Easier: UK holidaymakers will benefit from smoother travel with more access to eGates, while a new “pet passport” system will make it easier for families to bring cats and dogs abroad.
  • Safer Communities: New talks will allow access to EU facial recognition databases, enhancing the UK’s ability to track down dangerous criminals and improve border security.

Tracy Gilbert MP said: “After years of uncertainty for people and businesses following EU exit, this UK-EU Agreement struck by our UK Labour Government brings certainty through a closer relationship with the EU. This new deal strengthens security, supports trade, and opens the door to new opportunities for our young people.

“This deal delivers real, practical benefits for Edinburgh North and Leith whether that be reducing regulation helping businesses to export making it easier for families and holidaymakers to travel across Europe everyone will feel a benefit.

“I welcome the commitment to co-operate further on a Youth experience scheme such as a Youth Mobility Scheme. Such a Scheme would open the opportunity local young people have with countries such as Australia and New Zealand to EU countries. I know my constituents support a Youth Mobility Scheme and I will continue to push for progress.”

Better late than never: UK sanctions hit West Bank violence network

UK sanctions individuals, illegal settler outposts and organisations supporting violence against Palestinian communities in the West Bank, as Foreign Secretary pauses free trade agreement negotiations with Israel.

  • new sanctions target 3 individuals, 2 illegal settler outposts and 2 organisations supporting violence against Palestinian communities in the West Bank
  • today’s measures include financial restrictions and travel bans, including on high-profile extremist settler leader Daniella Weiss
  • in a statement to the House, the Foreign Secretary is set to announce a formal pause of free trade agreement negotiations with Israel, effective immediately
  • he will make clear the UK’s complete opposition to the IDF’s new, extensive ground operation through Gaza, repeat UK demands that Hamas release all the hostages immediately and unconditionally, and reiterate that Hamas cannot continue to run Gaza

In response to the persistent cycle of serious violence undertaken by extremist Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank, the Foreign Secretary has announced new sanctions today.

Today’s measures target 3 individuals, including prominent settler leader Daniella Weiss, as well as 2 illegal outposts and 2 organisations that have supported, incited and promoted violence against Palestinian communities in the West Bank.

These individuals and entities are now subject to measures including financial restrictions, travel bans, and director disqualifications, and will follow 18 other individuals, entities, and companies already sanctioned relating to serious violence against communities in the West Bank.

The measures follow a dramatic surge in settler violence in the West Bank, with the UN recording over 1,800 attacks by settlers against Palestinian communities since 1 January 2024.

In a statement to Parliament, the Foreign Secretary is also set to announce the formal pause of free trade agreement negotiations with Israel, effective immediately. While the UK government remains committed to the existing trade agreement in force, it is not possible to advance discussions on a new, upgraded FTA with a Netanyahu government that is pursuing egregious policies in the West Bank and Gaza.

His statement will address latest developments on the ground in Gaza, making clear the UK’s complete opposition to the IDF’s new, extensive ground operation through Gaza, the threat of starvation for the Gazan population, and the UK’s condemnation of the Israeli government’s plans to drive Gazans from their homes into a corner of the Strip. The Foreign Secretary will also repeat UK demands that Hamas release all the hostages immediately and unconditionally and reiterate that Hamas cannot continue to run Gaza.

The new steps follow a joint statement issued by the Prime Minister along with the leaders of France and Canada, setting out their strong opposition to the expansion of Israel’s military operations in Gaza and to illegal settlements in the West Bank. They also made clear that if Israel does not cease this action, further action will be taken in response.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy said: “I have seen for myself the consequences of settler violence. The fear of its victims. The impunity of its perpetrators.

“The sanctioning of Daniella Weiss and others today demonstrates our determination to hold extremist settlers to account as Palestinian communities suffer violence and intimidation at the hands of extremist settlers.

“The Israeli government has a responsibility to intervene and halt these aggressive actions. Their consistent failure to act is putting Palestinian communities and the two-state solution in peril.”

The announcement comes as Minister for the Middle East Hamish Falconer summons Israel’s Ambassador Tzipi Hotovely to the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office over the expansion of military operations in Gaza.

Minister for the Middle East Hamish Falconer said: “Today I will set out to Ambassador Hotovely the government’s opposition to the wholly disproportionate escalation of military activity in Gaza and emphasise that the 11-week block on aid to Gaza has been cruel and indefensible.

“I will urge Israel to halt settlement expansion and settler violence in the West Bank.

“Israel must abide by its obligations under International Humanitarian Law and ensure full, rapid, safe and unhindered provision of humanitarian assistance to the population in Gaza. The limited amount of aid entering is simply not enough.

“We must get an immediate ceasefire and the release of all hostages and a path to a two-state solution is the only way to ensure the long-term peace and security of both Palestinians and Israelis.”

Individuals and entities sanctioned today:

  • Daniella Weiss – has been involved in threatening, perpetrating, promoting and supporting, acts of aggression and violence against Palestinian individuals. Weiss is now subject to an asset freeze, travel ban, and director disqualification
  • Harel Libi – owner of Libi Construction and Infrastructure. Libi has been involved in threatening and perpetuating acts of aggression and violence against Palestinian individuals. Libi is now subject to an asset freeze, travel ban, and director disqualification
  • Zohar Sabah – has been involved in threatening, perpetrating, promoting and supporting, acts of aggression and violence against Palestinian individuals. Sabah is now subject to an asset freeze, travel ban, and director disqualification
  • Coco’s Farm – is associated with a person who is or has been involved in activity which amounts to facilitating, inciting, promoting or providing support for activity which amounts to a serious abuse of the right of individuals not to be subjected to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.  Coco’s Farm is now subject to an asset freeze
  • Libi Construction and Infrastructure – has provided logistical and financial support for the establishment of illegal outposts resulting in the forced displacement of Palestinians in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, activities which cause the psychological suffering of Palestinians, and activities which often leads to violence perpetrated against Palestinians. Libi Construction and Infrastructure is now subject to an asset freeze and director disqualification
  • Nachala – has been involved in facilitating, inciting, promoting and providing logistical and financial support for the establishment of illegal outposts and forced displacement of Palestinians in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, activities which cause the psychological suffering of Palestinians, and which often lead to violence perpetrated against Palestinians. Nachala is now subject to an asset freeze
  • Neria’s Farm – is associated with a person who is or has been involved in activity which amounts to facilitating, inciting, promoting or providing support for activity which amounts to a serious abuse of the right of individuals not to be subjected to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. Neria’s Farm is now subject to an asset freeze

Definitions

  • asset freeze: where an asset freeze applies, in summary, it is generally prohibited within the UK, and for UK persons outside the UK, to:
    1. Deal with funds or economic resources, owned, held or controlled by a designated person
    2. Make funds or economic resources available, directly or indirectly, to, or for the benefit of, a designated person
    3. Engage in actions that, directly or indirectly, circumvent the financial sanctions prohibitions
  • director disqualification sanctions: Where director disqualification sanctions apply, it will be an offence for a person designated for the purpose of those sanctions to act as a director of a company or to take part in the management, formation or promotion of a UK company
  • travel ban: an individual subject to a travel ban will be an excluded person under section 8B of the Immigration Act 1971, meaning that they must be refused leave to enter or to remain in the United Kingdom