News that the Gangmasters’ Licensing Authority’s remit will not include the construction industry has been welcomed by the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) which represents 13,000 of the UK’s SME construction companies.
Brian Berry, Director of External Affairs at the Federation of Master Builders said:
“At a time when small builders are suffering the effects of the economic downturn as well as increased red tape and bureaucracy the last thing that is needed now is yet more regulation. It is therefore welcome news that the Gangmasters’ Licensing Authority’s remit is not to be extended. The solution to stamping out unscrupulous employment practices is more rigorous enforcement of existing laws rather than creating more regulation.”
Berry continued:
“We need to get the balance right between making sure workers are not being exploited, while ensuring that small employers who operate legitimately in the building sector are not overburdened with more legislation. Illegal practices and exploitation of labour serve no one, least of all the hardworking, honest professionals in the building industry who are undercut by such activities. The FMB supports measures to stamp out illegal and unfair practices in the construction sector and we call on others in the construction sector to do likewise.”
5th August 2008
