Tory blunder on Services Directive led to temporary worker exclusion

12.37.18pm GMT Thu 16th Feb 2006

Temporary worker agencies were today excluded from key legislation opening the EU's services sector, after the European Parliament passed an amendment accidentally tabled last week by confused Conservative MEPs.

Tory MEPs agreed last week to table the amendment, calling for the exclusion of temporary work agencies, after last minute negotiations with the Socialist party. The amendment was passed today by 412 to 232 votes.

It means Europe's temporary work agencies, which employ over 3 million workers, have been excluded from the Services Directive and will not benefit from the opening of the EU's services market.

Speaking in Strasbourg, Liz Lynne, Lib Dem Employment Spokesperson, said:

"This Tory-sponsored amendment is a big blow for British business. Temporary workers agencies were set to benefit from the opening of the services market, but will now lose out."

"Temporary work is a growing sector, as employees increasingly choose greater flexibility in their working lives. It can also be a lifestyle choice: a recent survey by King's College London found temporary workers are both happier and healthier than permanent workers. Temporary work agencies provide a useful role in the labour market, and there is absolutely no reason for them to be excluded."

The amendment will lead to calls for the harmonisation of temporary work agencies.

Liz Lynne said:

"This could put the Temporary Workers Directive back on the table, which we thought we had kicked into the long grass. A 'one size fits all' approach will not work, and could destroy employment prospects for temporary workers."

ENDS