An innovative radio campaign hit the airwaves this week, as the Gangmasters Licensing Authority ramps up its fight to rid the UK of illegal labour providers.
In what is believed to be a first, the four-week campaign will be trilingual. The GLA has recorded a message in English, Portuguese and Polish, which urges workers in horticulture and other food sectors to phone a GLA or Crimestoppers helpline and shop illegal or exploitative operators.
The ads also serve as a wake-up call to labour providers, who have until October 1 to get a statutory licence. Non-compliance could lead to a jail term of up to 10 years, and fines of up to £5,000.
Mike Wilson, chief executive of the GLA, said: “Through this campaign we want to build up trust with the workers who will be protected by the GLA so that they have the confidence to report illegal gangmasters. We will use our powers to enforce the law whilst also offering advice and support to labour providers to get them licensed.”
GLA enforcement officers are now operating in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, gathering and following up on intelligence.
After October 1, their remits will extend to investigation and interviewing possible offenders, as well as using warrants to enter relevant premises if necessary. Any information gathered could be used to influence future licensing decisions and as the basis for prosecutions if necessary.
“We will work resolutely to drive out and prosecute those who refuse to conform to the law,” pledged GLA chairman Paul Whitehouse.
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