SCOTLAND'S oldest prep school has failed to pay its staff the national minimum wage.

Cargilfield School in Edinburgh, which was founded in 1873, neglected to pay £3,739 to a worker. It is among 25 UK employers identified by the Government which owe workers more than £43,000 in arrears, and face fines totalling more than £21,000.

Business Minister Jenny Willott said: "Paying less than the minimum wage is not only wrong, it's illegal. If employers break the law they need to know that they will face tough consequences. Any worker who is entitled to the minimum wage should receive it. If anyone suspects they are not being paid the wage they are legally entitled to they should call the Pay and Work Rights helpline on 0800 917 2368."

TUC general secretary Frances O'Grady said: "Minimum-wage crooks are getting named and shamed."

Perth Hotels failed to pay a worker £556 and tanning salon Sun Shack of Hamilton owed £134 to eight workers.