Proposal to protect vulnerable workers from rogue companies

The Department of Trade and Industry has launched a consultation on measures to protect agency workers from exploitation by rogue companies.

Under the proposals, workers will be educated on UK employment rights and warned of unscrupulous practices before they enter the country. Workers will also be given the right to withdraw from accommodation, transport or other services provided by an agency without any detriment to their position.

The government has announced two pilot projects in London and Birmingham to educate “vulnerable workers” on their employment rights. It has also eased some of the administrative burden on agencies in a bid to divert more funds towards workers.

Jim FitzPatrick, employment relations minister, said: “Many agency workers choose temporary positions as it fits their lifestyle and allows them to choose their working pattern. The government’s focus in this consultation is on those agency workers who are vulnerable, to make sure they know their rights.”