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date: 19 August 2009

embargo: For immediate release

TUC backs recommendations to prevent employers exploiting migration

Commenting on the recommendations made by the Migration Advisory Committee today (Wednesday), TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber said:

'Unions and working people will welcome the emphasis on preventing unscrupulous employers from abusing the points-based immigration system.

'Strengthening the Resident Labour Market Test and toughening up the Intra-Company Transfer system are sensible moves that will prevent the exploitation of migrant workers and the undercutting of people already working here.

'But the Government must resist the temptation to pull up the drawbridge on foreign workers who can contribute hugely to public services, to the economy and to our society as a whole.

'And we must all be careful not to bolster the myths about immigration which fuel racism and cause division.'

NOTES TO EDITORS:

- A more detailed TUC analysis of the MAC's report, and a commentary on the proposals made, will be submitted to the Home Secretary in the near future.

- All TUC press releases can be found at www.tuc.org.uk

- Register for the TUC's press extranet: a service exclusive to journalists wanting to access pre-embargo releases and reports from the TUC. Visit www.tuc.org.uk/pressextranet

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Contacts:

Media enquiries:
Liz Chinchen T: 020 7467 1248 M: 07778 158175 E: media@tuc.org.uk
Rob Holdsworth T: 020 7467 1372 M: 07717 531150 E: rholdsworth@tuc.org.uk
Elly Brenchley T: 020 7467 1337 M: 07900 910624 E: ebrenchley@tuc.org.uk

Press release (400 words) issued 19 Aug 2009