Topical Questions

Question: Only yesterday, the Minister for Employment Relations and Postal Affairs warned that the recession should not be used as a reason to exploit vulnerable workers. Many of us welcomed that warning, but can he tell us what his Government are doing in practical terms to ensure that that does not happen?

Answer: My hon. Friend is absolutely right to draw attention to that danger. The recession must not be an excuse to deny employment rights to some of the most vulnerable workers in the country. That is why we have changed the law, bringing in tougher penalties for employers who do not pay the minimum wage and better arrears for employees who are denied the minimum wage. We are also putting in extra resources, including a £1 million campaign that was recently launched to inform agency workers of their basic employment rights, including wages, paid leave and so on. It is very important that we come through this recession not only by helping business but by ensuring that the most vulnerable workers do not pay the price.

Secondary information