UNDERPAID workers will from July 8 be able to claim minimum wage arrears for past as well as present jobs.

Firms will face backdated wage claims under the new law to toughen up enforcement of the national minimum wage.

Employment relations minister Gerry Sutcliffe said: "The government is determined to make sure that all workers, including those who have left for new jobs, are paid what they are owed.

"This new legislation restores the position following an adverse tribunal ruling last year, and will ensure that the Inland Revenue can again take enforcement action in all complaint cases for former workers."

The National Minimum Wage (Enforcement Notices) Act amends the parent legislation (the National Minimum Wage Act 1998.

The new legislation was deemed necessary after an Employment Appeals Tribunal decision in August 2002 - Bebb Travel v Inland Revenue - which ruled that minimum wage enforcement officers were not entitled to issue notices claiming minimum wage arrears on behalf of former workers.

The new National Minimum Wage (Enforcement Notices) Act gained Royal Assent on May 8.

From October 1 the minimum wage for workers aged 22 or over will be increased from £4.20 to £4.50, while the rate for 18-21-year-olds will be increased from £3.60 to £3.80. Up to 1.6 million low-paid workers stand to benefit.

Anyone who thinks they are not being paid the minimum wage should call the helpline on 0845 600 0678 or click on www.tiger.gov.uk (Tailored Interactive Guidance On Employment Rights).