Gauke under fire over cash comments

A Treasury minister who said it was "morally wrong" for householders to pay tradesmen in cash for a discount has come under fire from a body representing plumbers, builders and electricians.

Exchequer Secretary David Gauke sparked controversy after accusing homeowners who give workers cash of helping them avoid tax. He said: "Getting a discount with your plumber by paying cash in hand is something that is a big cost to the Revenue and means others have to pay more in tax.