Gleeful Primark bosses posted more than half a billion pounds in profit yesterday on the work of women paid just 7p an hour.

The clothing giant reported a 44 per cent leap in pre-tax profits, climbing to £514 million for the year to September.

CEO George Weston of the retailer's parent company Associated British Foods described "a remarkable year for Primark," variously attributing its profits to expanded shop floors and "strategically placed mannequins."