Construction is the industry most likely to experience problems recruiting director-level staff when corporate manslaughter legislation is passed, according to research by law firm CMS Cameron McKenna.

A survey of 340 of the firms’ clients showed that 84% believed construction was the sector most likely to miss out on staff as a result of the legislation. Forty-two per cent said that any industry with a history of health and safety concerns, such as construction, would struggle to attract top-level managerial candidates.

The survey, which included responses from about 100 construction companies, found that only 40% of firms believed the bill, currently being considered by the government, was workable.

Three-quarters believed it would encourage “risk averse” behaviour.

The survey findings come amid growing pressure on the government from unions to introduce tough corporate manslaughter legislation following the dropping of charges in the Hatfield rail case.

Postscript

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