Britain’s Business minister is launching an inquiry into tipping abuse by restaurants, including some of the country’s best-known and biggest chains.<br /><br /> It follows several accusations and reports that waiters are being diddled out of their tips by management holding onto the money. The inquiry will determine if government intervention is needed.<br /><br /> Unions say the practice of witholding tips is widespread, especially at establishments which impose a service charge, much of which is often retained by the restaurant. They add the practice hits some of Britain’s poorest-paid workers, although others claim tips is the public subsidising employers who refuse pay a living wage, and that instead of tips proper wages would be preferable.
