date: Wednesday 4 June 2008
embargo: for immediate release
TUC presents vulnerable worker report to PM
The TUC Commission on Vulnerable Employment this afternoon met the Prime Minister to present the Commission's final report to the Government.
The Commission, which was chaired by TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber, included leading employers and civil society representatives alongside senior trade unionists.
The report, which was produced on 7 May, highlighted the gross exploitation and abuse found among an estimated 2 million workers in the UK today.
It makes a series of radical recommendations for change, including a dramatic increase in the availability of advice and information about employment rights; a step change in the enforcement of legal rights, including the establishment of a 'Fair Employment Commission'; and the closure of legal loopholes that leave workers unprotected.
The Prime Minister welcomed the chance to discuss the report and said that the Government was giving positive consideration to its recommendations and was strongly committed to working with the TUC, employers and others to tackle the issues highlighted. Further discussions will be held.
Speaking after the meeting, TUC General Secretary and chair of the Commission on Vulnerable Employment Brendan Barber said: 'The Prime Minister clearly acknowledged that these unacceptable abuses have to be tackled. I hope to see the Government coming forward with the practical actions that is so desperately needed'.
NOTES TO EDITORS:
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Press release (400 words) issued 4 Jun 2008
