BOLTON MP Dr Brian Iddon has launched a furious attack on mean-spirited bosses who are skimping on their responsibilities by not paying their way.

And he has called on Government ministers to take action to clamp down on tight-fisted employers who break the law by not paying the National Minimum Wage (NMW).

The BEN revealed how many of Bolton's of low paid workers are feeling the pinch because unscrupulous bosses are trying to find loopholes in the law to avoid paying the NMW.

The shock findings from Bolton's Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) show that, despite the fact that the NMW was introduced more than a year ago, many workers are still being paid well below the rate.

The CAB say some bosses are trying to fob staff off by saying not everyone is eligible for the minimum £3.60 or £3.20 for workers between 18 and 20. While other employers have admitted to staff that they are falsifying records to claim they are paying the NMW when they are not.

The BEN highlighted one case on a 19-year-old working for a firm of selectors and being paid a mere £1.75 which Dr Iddon says left him "disgusted".

The example comes from literally hundreds of complaints the CAB has dealt with over the last year.

Unfairly

The CAB are urging all workers who feel they are being unfairly treated to visit their Mawdsley Street offices for more information.

But Bolton South west MP Dr Iddon says he will now see what pressure he can bring to bear in the corridors of power.

And will be raising the issue with Trade and Industry Minister Stephen Byers and Education Secretary David Blunkett at this week's Labour Party Conference in Brighton.

"I was absolutely appalled to read that some workers in Bolton are not being paid the National Minimum Wage they are entitled to by law," said Dr Iddon. "Some employers, who have been forced to pay the National Minimum Wage, have removed various long-standing "perks", such as taxis home late at night and meals.

"For a solicitor's office - of all places - not to pay the statutory, legal minimum disgusted me. The CAB is to be applauded for shining a light on these unscrupulous, skinflint employers."

"I will be asking ministers what further action can be taken to crack down on these kind of abuses which are not only breaking the law, but depriving hard working people of the chance to earn a living."

He added: "My message to the low paid workers who are suffering would be I know you are in a difficult position but these employers are breaking the law and you must bring it to our attention.

"Whether it is through your MP, your local councillor or the CAB, even if you do it anonymously, you must let us know."