Countryside and Farming Matters

We have been asked to publicize the following request for support for the Bill to regulate gangmasters. Following the tragedy at Morecambe this now has a much higher profile and deserves our attention.

Update
This Bill passed its Second Reading unopposed on 27th February. It will need continued support as it continues its way through the Parliamentary process.

GANGMASTERS LICENSING BILL

CAMPAIGN TO SUPPORT THE SECOND READING
27th February 2004:

Jim Sheridan MP is working with the Transport and General Workers Union, the NFU, the TUC, leading food retailers, MPs from all parties, church and community groups to promote a Private Members Bill to license and register gangmasters operating in agriculture and related industries. The campaign is now entering a decisive phase and we need the support of rural voluntary and community groups to ensure that MPs act to back this Bill.

The Bill - which seeks to tackle illegal gangmasters and stop the exploitation of thousands of vulnerable workers - receives its pivotal Second Reading in the House of Commons on Friday, February 27th, 2004. We need as many MPs as possible to attend that debate, so please help by writing or speaking to your local MP and ask them to attend the debate and speak in favour of the Bill. If you need further information about the Bill or the campaign to support it, visit the T&G website -www.tgwu.org.uk - or contact the T&G Head of Campaigns, Pauline Doyle on pdoyle@tgwu.org.uk.

Given the recent deaths in Morecambe, the case for this Bill has never been stronger. With your assistance and support, we can help make it law.
Thank you.

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