Britain’s Business minister is launching an inquiry into tipping abuse by restaurants, including some of the country’s best-known and biggest chains.

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.

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.