The Recruitment and Employment Confederation, the industry body for the private recruitment industry has given its support to a Private Memberís Bill being introduced by Bill Sheridan MP (Labour MP for West Renfrewshire), which is designed to make the operation of gangmasters more transparent.
The vast majority of recruiters act fairly, ethically and in the interests of their clients and workers, however as last weekís events in Morecambe demonstrate, there are some gangmasters who are deliberately exploiting workers, with tragic consequences. Problems have been identified in a number of sectors, but particularly in agriculture, construction, hospitality and the railway industries.
The REC believes that by supporting sensible legislation, the industry can strengthen the respect, trust and support of the business, government and employee communities that is vital for the continued growth of the industry. Alienating those that purport to be part of the recruitment industry, but who act outside of the law is a key step to delivering improved standards.
The draft Gangmasters Licensing Bill was introduced in the House of Commons on 7 January 2004 and will receive its Second Reading on Februrary 27 2004. The Bill focuses on the agriculture sector and will mean gangmasters have to obtain a licence and be entered onto a public register. The REC will continue to press the Government to ensure the Employment Agency Standards Inspectorate is provided the proper resource to fulfil its role.
Commenting on the RECís support for the Bill, Gareth Osborne, Managing Director of the REC said:
ìThis legislation, if it becomes law, will help to protect both workers and the reputation of our industry. The vast majority of recruitment companies act ethically, but their good name is being damaged by a few bad apples. Jim Sheridanís Bill is a first step to improve standards but the Government must also do more to join up its thinking across the range of departments that have responsibility for illegal working.î
REC Supports Legislation on Licensing of Gangmasters
Recruitment and Employment Confederation