Nick Boles MP

Minister of State for Skills

Department for BIS

1 Victoria Street

London

SW1H 0ET

 

Date: 13th January 2016

 

 

Dear Nick,

 

In a story featured in the Guardian on the 9th September  several dubious practices carried out by Sports Direct were highlighted. Some of these amounted to many staff being paid below the minimum wage. 

 

Whilst the company have now amended their pay policy, I would like to know what action is being taken to investigate the employment practices of Sports Direct and ensure the directors of the company are held to account for any breaches of employment law.

 

I understand that the BIS Select Committee is carrying out an inquiry but think that HMRC should be urged to fully investigate the company’s failure to pay the minimum wage. Are you able to tell me if Sports Direct self-reported this failure and whether there have been any discussions with them about next steps, including eg the prospect of prosecution?

 

Non-payment of the minimum wage is not the only problem. Sports Direct also needs to be subject to further investigation include  into the impact of additional time spent on security measures to which staff must comply without pay, and the punitive wage reductions that they receive when late or unwell. Is BIS concerned about the reports of poor employment practice at Sports Direct and what is it doing to follow up?

 

Several sources cite union officers highlighting a culture of fear that may well stop employees speaking out against the conditions under which they are working and the questionable practices to which they are subjected. It must be the responsibility of any investigation to ensure there is a way for staff members to contribute freely without fear of repercussions from their employer. 

 

I look forward to your response.

 

Yours sincerely,