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REC responds to media reports on Prime Minister’s AWR stance

There have some media stories today about Prime Minister David Cameron reportedly being prepared to take a new look at the Agency Workers Regulations. The REC would of course welcome any measures that would make life easier for the recruitment industry. However, it is unlikely that there will be any significant changes at this late stage and the REC will be urgently writing to the Prime Minister directly  seeking clarity from him on whether there is any substance to today’s media reports.

Commenting on the latest stories, Kevin Green, the REC’s Chief Executive said:

“The REC has consistently highlighted some of the complexities within the Agency Work Regulations and we welcome the fact the Prime Minister is reportedly taking a direct interest in their impact.

“If the Government was to go head to head with the EU in simply refusing to introduce the new laws, there would be legitimate questions as to why this option was not pursued before as agencies have already invested substantial time and money in preparing for implementation on October 1.

“In most sectors, the impact will be limited and recruiters are already working with their clients to make new equal treatment measures work. However, any measures to streamline the way that the regulations are applied would of course be welcomed.

“One realistic way forward would be for the Government to agree on an early ‘one-year’ review of the Regulations. This is something the REC as called for in recent discussions with Ministers.

“We will keep REC members updated of any developments resulting from today’s reports.”