TUC: UK government should not entertain a UK-India trade deal until widespread rights abuses are dealt with

Commenting on the commencement of trade talks between the UK and India tomorrow, TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady said:  

“This is another example of the UK government hurtling into trade talks with a country that has a terrible record on human rights and workers’ rights.  

“Suppressing trade unions, forced labour, child labour and other workers’ rights abuses are all widespread in India. Until the Indian government acts, the government should not entertain a UK-India deal. 

“A UK-India trade deal could encourage companies to outsource more jobs from the UK to India, leading to a race to the bottom. 

“And such a deal could deepen gender inequalities and threaten food security in India by encouraging cheap imports.  

“The UK government should be using its leverage on the global stage to promote decent work. It’s time for ministers to listen to trade unions in both the UK and India and act to stop serious rights abuses.”