HMRC warns fashion houses over unpaid interns

HMRC has warned fashion labels of poor treatment of their interns in the lead up to February’s fashion weeks. The organisation sent cautionary letters to 102 fashion houses that exhibited during London Fashion Week in September, who they have

not named.

"These letters give fashion houses plenty of warning that they are under scrutiny. If they are not playing by the rules, now is the time to put things right. Non-payment of the national minimum wage is not an option," HMRC assistant director for National Minimum Wage Michelle Wyer said. "Our message is clear: don't wait for us to come knocking on your door; put things right now and avoid a penalty and possible prosecution."

The HMRC have warned that they will carry out checks in the New Year and that if unpaid interns are found being used in a job capacity, the fashion house will receive a financial penalty.

Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg today showed his support for the HMRC's announcement.

"I strongly urge fashion houses and designer labels to make sure they are treating interns fairly," Clegg us today. "Where an individual is entitled to the minimum wage they should receive it. Internships provide valuable opportunities in opening up doors for the future and they should be available to everyone, not just those who can afford to work for nothing.

"I welcome HMRC's action today and I encourage employers in the fashion industry to sign up to our Business Compact, where they can commit to reforming their internships schemes to ensure opportunities are available to young people from all walks of life."