Employment of temps on the increase

There
has been a huge increase in the number of temporary workers being employed in
the UK,
according to a new survey.

The
survey, conducted by financial recruitment firm Portfolio Payroll, shows the
increase has been dramatic, with 79 per cent of businesses now offering
permanent positions to temporary workers, as opposed to 62 per cent from the
same survey two years ago.

The
survey also found the vast majority of temps are considered to be more punctual
and reliable than full-time staff.

Findings
from the survey include:

Have you ever used a temporary worker to
fill a short-term position?

2002                                        2004

Yes
– 47 per cent                     Yes – 74
per cent

No
– 53 per cent                      No – 26
per cent

Have you ever offered permanent positions to
temporary workers?

2002                                        2004

Yes
– 62 per cent                     Yes – 79
per cent

No
– 38 per cent                      No – 21
per cent

Are temporary workers more reliable and
punctual than full-time workers?

2002                                        2004

Yes
– 76 per cent                     Yes – 91 per cent

Same
– 9 per cent                     Same – 4
per cent

No
– 15 per cent                      No – 5 per cent

Quentin Reade