Supertemps today announced they are opposed to new laws giving agency workers extra rights.

It believes the industry would benefit from better policing of rogue recruiters, rather than extra legislation giving agency workers the same rights as their non-agency equivalents.

Some unions claim agency workers are exploited, and a backbench bill to increase workers’ rights received a vote of approval in parliament on February 22 as it seeks to become law.

Supertemps director Sarah Ellwood said: “Unscrupulous agencies breaking existing laws aren’t going to change their ways because of new laws".

“Agencies that abide by current employment law and perform the proper checks of employers and employees before placements ensure both sides benefit from an excellent working relationship."

“Every week we place scores of people in roles across North Wales and the feedback we regularly ask for is always positive, from both the employer and employee."

“Agencies provide an essential service for businesses that need flexible staff, whether it’s because they’re extra busy, want to “test the water” as they expand, or need someone as cover for longer-term absentees."

“Employers and employees should not dismiss this flexible way of working on the back of negative press.”

The CBI echoes Supertemps’ stance on new legislation for agency workers, saying that existing laws simply need better enforcement.

The Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) estimates that 170,000 jobs are advertised through recruitment agencies in Wales per year.

Research from REC claims the vast majority of these temporary workers, over 80%, are satisfied with their assignment and welcome the opportunities that temping brings them.

Supertemps is a member of REC and The Employment Agents Movement (TEAM), a network of agencies that work together to source highly specialised workers and difficult-to-fill positions.

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