UK to get backing from Germany on temps directive

The
Recruitment & Employment Confederation (REC) has said Germany is set to
back the UK’s stance on the Agency Workers Directive.

It
said it understands that the German Government has reached an informal
agreement with the UK Government to support the UK’s position in the Council of
Ministers.

The
European Commission Agency Workers Directive proposes to give agency workers
the same pay and conditions as permanent employees. Agency staff would be
entitled to the same salaries, work and rest periods, paid holidays, overtime
pay and health and safety rights, but UK plc argues that this would raise
employers’ costs and tie them up in red tape.

The
REC, which represents the UK’s private recruitment and staffing industry, has
been working to gain the support of the German Government.

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Marcia
Roberts, director of external relations at the REC said: "Germany’s
support in the Council of Ministers is crucial if the Agency Workers Directive
is to be amended. If today’s reports are true, it is a welcome boost for temps,
business and the economy, and we welcome it wholeheartedly."

By Quentin Reade