PRIVATE RECRUITMENT AGENCIES

Early day motion 84, tabled 12 December 2000 by Lord Cotter (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 26 members.

That this House welcomes the reform of the Employment Agencies Act 1973 to meet more adequately the modern needs of the labour market; fully supports new regulation to promote flexibility, the prevention of payment abuses and greater transparency of terms of business on an industry wide basis; shares many of the concerns expressed by the industry that the abolition of the 'temp to perm' fees currently charged by employment bureaux will inhibit the creation of job opportunities particularly for those who may be disadvantaged such as older candidates, women returning to work, those with gaps in the CVs due to unemployment and job applicants who may not perform well in the interview situation; believes that 'temp-to-perm' services will become uncommercial for many agencies leading to less temporary work and fewer job opportunities for disadvantaged groups; and calls upon the Department of Trade and Industry to consult widely with the industry to achieve a solution that does not serve as a constraint on the temporary job market.

Signatures by party: Liberal Democrat 17, Labour 8, Labour/Co-operative 1.