Expert's warning about ignoring living wage

The National Living Wage means all workers aged 25 and over must be paid at least £7.20 per hour – a pay rise of 50p per hour.

For everyone under 25, the National Minimum Wage continues to apply.

Sue Ball, head of employment at Verisona Law, which has offices at 1000 Lakeside in North Harbour and in Waterlooville, said: ‘Implementing the National Living Wage is not something that should be ignored or delayed, as there are stiff penalties in place.

‘Employers can be fined 200 per cent of the amount owed if arrears are not paid within 14 days and receive fines of up to £20,000 per worker.’