TUC backs call for proper investigation into blacklisting on Crossrail

date: 23 July 2013

embargo: For immediate release

The TUC has today (Tuesday) backed calls from the Scottish Affairs Select Committee for Business Secretary Vince Cable to launch a formal investigation into claims of 'blacklisting' on the Crossrail project.

TUC General Secretary Frances O'Grady said: 'Over the years thousands of workers have suffered the injustice of being denied work simply for raising concerns about the safety of their colleagues.

'The Scottish Affairs Select Committee has now found that blacklisting is still taking place on major construction projects in the UK.

'Blacklisting is a shameful practice that has no place in a modern economy. It causes misery for those on the blacklist and puts at risk many thousands of construction workers who feel unable to raise safety concerns, in one of the country's most dangerous industries, for fear of losing their livelihoods.

'It's not enough for the government to refer the issue to the Information Commissioner. The Business Secretary must carry out a proper investigation into blacklisting to stamp out this abuse for once and for all.'

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