Government says report, which is believed to recommend extension of Gangmaster Licensing Act, will be released on Wednesday

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has confirmed that a government report into construction deaths will be published on Wednesday.

Confusion reigned after unions claimed that the inquiry, led by Rita Donaghy, former chair of the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service, would be published today, despite denials by the DWP.

Building was informed earlier today that the inquiry could be delayed for up to two weeks, prompting criticism from union Ucatt and safety campaign group Families Against Corporate Killers, which both accused the government of using the extra time to “water down” the report.

But the DWP confirmed this afternoon that the report would now be published tomorrow.

Building understands a leaked copy had already been seen by unions. It is understood recommendations will be made to extend the Gangmasters Licensing Act, and introduce statutory directors duties.

The inquiry was originally ordered by James Purnell, the former secretary of state, in August 2008, after 32% of all worker deaths in that year were found to be in the construction industry.

The investigation was originally due to have been submitted by 30 April, but was delayed after Donaghy said she needed more time to examine all areas of the industry. It then suffered a further delay following the prime minister Gordon Brown's cabinet reshuffle.

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