A shocking 37 Welsh employers were caught paying workers less than the minimum wage last year but none faced prosecution, official figures uncovered by Plaid Cymru have revealed.

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) said 292 workers across Wales did not receive the minimum wage of £6.31 per hour.

And Plaid leader Leanne Wood, who made the freedom of information request, said yesterday that law-breaking bosses must be taken to court.

HMRC found seven underpaying businesses in Cardiff, 10 in north Wales, eight in mid Wales, six in Llandudno and fewer than five in Newport and Swansea.

Collectively, they added an extra £97,226 to their bottom line by dodging the minimum wage.

A HMRC spokeswoman said the employers were forced to pay the money back to workers and received a fine.

She said: "Criminal prosecution is a last resort, and we will use this option when employers persistently refuse to pay what employees are owed," she said.

But Ms Wood insisted legal action was needed to stop employers flouting the law.

She said: "When people and families all over Wales are struggling to meet increasing energy and food bills, it is wrong that workers are still being exploited in such a damaging way.

"I called a number of years ago to end the softly, softly approach and name and shame employers and prosecute where appropriate. Let's hope we now see some action."

HMRC also revealed fewer companies were caught dodging the minimum wage compared to last year.

And PCS general secretary Mark Serwotka said more than eight staff were needed to combat minimum wage avoidance at HMRC Cardiff office.

He said: "The government talks a lot about 'making work pay' but refuses to provide sufficient officers and resources to ensure that employers pay the minimum wage, and to prosecute those that flout the law.

"At a time when people are struggling to make ends meet due to rising energy, transport and housing costs, it is more important than ever that the government ensures the minimum wage is enforced."