Source · Select Committees · Business and Trade Committee
Recommendation 18
18
Acknowledged
Effective labour market enforcement is crucial for strengthened worker rights and fair standards
Conclusion
Laws are only as effective as those who enforce them. If the Government wishes to ensure workers are given strengthened employment rights, and that all firms benefit from a level playing field for labour standards, effective labour market enforcement must be prioritised. (Conclusion, Paragraph 94)
Government Response Summary
The government is committed to effective labour market enforcement by balancing resources, expertise, and coordination, and will monitor the effectiveness and consider resources for the Fair Work Agency when developing its enforcement strategy and annual report.
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
The Government is committed to ensuring that labour market enforcement is as effective as possible by focusing on the right balance of resources, expertise, and strategic coordination. While inspector numbers are an important consideration, the real measure of success is how well enforcement protects workers and ensures fair competition for businesses. By streamlining state enforcement efforts, we can maximise efficiency, reduce duplication, and make the best use of public money. Additionally, modern enforcement strategies –such as intelligence-led investigations and targeted interventions – allow us to focus resources where they will have the greatest impact. However, we also recognise the importance of ensuring the Fair Work Agency (FWA) has the tools it needs to do its job effectively, including having the right level of resources. The Government remains committed to strong, well-resourced enforcement that delivers real results for workers and businesses. We will closely monitor its effectiveness and consider the resources available to the FWA when producing the enforcement strategy and annual report, as this will clearly be a fundamental aspect to both.