Yingji Li was the sole director of Mandarin Kitchen Ltd, which was incorporated in February 2013 and went into liquidation in April 2014 owing £394,267 to creditors.

The Insolvency Service’s investigation concluded that Li caused the company to fail to submit returns or payments to HMRC in respect of VAT, PAYE and National Insurance contributions, with at least £191,748 being owed to HMRC at the date of liquidation. In addition Li was found to have employed two illegal workers.

Robert Clarke, chief investigator at the Insolvency Service, said: ‘The Insolvency Service will work with other government agencies to take robust action against company directors who fail to comply with the law.

‘In this case, Mr Li disregarded both immigration and taxation legislation and has therefore been disqualified for a significant period. He will also have to meet the legal costs of the proceedings against him.’