The Gangmasters (Licensing) Act 2004 (c. 11) is an act of the Parliament of the United Kingdom regulating agency workers.
Background The legislation was proposed soon after 23 Chinese cockle-pickers died as a result of the Morecambe Bay cockling disaster.
Legislative passage The legislation was passed as a private member's bill.
Provisions The act establishes a system of registration and licensing for employers.
Those operating without a licence can receive a sentence of up to 10 years, and farmers and food companies can face a sentence of up to 6 months.
The authority regulates the agriculture, shellfish and processing and packing sectors.
Commencement
The following commencement orders have been made for this act:
Gangmasters (Licensing) Act 2004 (Commencement No. 1) Order 2004 (SI 2004/2857) Gangmasters (Licensing) Act 2004 (Commencement No. 2) Order 2005 (SI 2005/447) Gangmasters (Licensing) Act 2004 (Commencement No. 3) Order 2006 (SI 2006/2406) Gangmasters (Licensing) Act 2004 (Commencement No. 4) Order 2006 (SI 2006/2906) Gangmasters (Licensing) Act 2004 (Commencement No. 5) Order 2007 (SI 2007/695)
Reception The bill was supported by the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee.
See also UK agency worker law Agency Workers Directive Employment Agencies Act 1973
Notes
References
External links