Q: Are there any circumstances where it is legal to delay payment of the final pay, or is this illegal under wages protection act? Please tell me where this can be confirmed in law?
A: What does it state in the employee employment agreement on a final pay (when it is to be paid).
Nothing by law except you have to have written consent of the employee (Wages Protection Act).
Q: We have stated in an email that the final pay will be paid one week after the last day of work, but are considering delaying this as the employee is not engaging and has not returned all of the company property.
A: You cannot do this; you must have written consent from the employee.