HM Revenue and Customs has issued a reminder to all temporary staff over the Christmas season that they are entitled to be paid at least the minimum wage.

The minimum wage enforcement budget was increased by 50 per cent in the pre-Budget report this year, allowing new initiatives such as online reporting to be rolled out.

All workers over the age of 22 are entitled to at least £5.35 an hour and those aged 18 to 21 can expect at least £4.45 an hour, according to employment minister Jim Fitzpatrick.

"Employers and employees need to remember that anyone working on a temporary or part time basis over Christmas is still entitled to be paid at least the minimum wage," said the paymaster general Dawn Primarolo.

"Christmas can be an expensive time for families so we want to make it as easy as possible for people who may be owed money to get in touch so we can investigate, and where possible secure and outstanding arrears."

Many people find that the additional expense of higher heating bills at Christmas time can put extra strain on their finances.

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Author:  Joanne McCabe