Oldham Athletic "named and shamed" for paying less than minimum wage

The breaches at Oldham Athletic date from 2012 to 2016

Oldham Athletic have appeared on a government list of 191 companies which failed to pay the correct level of minimum wage - despite the issue being settled over three years ago.

Following investigations by Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs, a total of £2.1 million was found to be owed to over 34,000 workers.

The breaches at Oldham Athletic date from 2012 to 2016, totalling £2,812.38.

The underpayments predate the current board at the club, who say the dispute was closed and settled by HMRC in 2018.

However, it's understood the current board - whilst acknowledging this was a serious breach - are disappointed that the information has been published, as they were not in charge of the club at the time.

A spokesperson for Latics said: "HMRC investigated Oldham Athletic Association Football Club, and found that it had underpaid 6 workers a total £2,812.38 between 1 April 2012 and 31 October 2016.
 
"Oldham Athletic repaid this sum to the affected workers, and also paid a penalty of £1,924.74 to the government.
 
"HMRC’s investigation was closed by its issuing a case closure letter dated 15 March 2018."

The government say it is committed to protecting workers’ rights:  "While the vast majority of businesses follow the law and uphold workers’ rights, the publication of this list serves as a reminder to employers that the government will take action against those who fail to pay their employees the minimum wage."

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.