APSCo backs call for strategic review to end raw deal for contractors

An agents' association has become the latest group to declare support for a wide ranging strategic review that could end the raw deal for contractors.

The Association of Professional Staffing Companies (APSCo) said it was backing the plan after the sector had been bombarded with an 'onslaught of new legislation' over the last few years.

The bid to secure a review of the legislation affecting contractors led by trade body PRISM has so far attracted support from 55 members of Parliament and the House of Lords, as well as Shadow Financial Secretary to the Treasury Rob Marris.

It is hoped that such a review could mean equal recognition for Britain's contractors for the first time.

APSCo's Samantha Hurley said: "APSCo fully supports this call for a Strategic Review as the sector has been subjected to an onslaught of new legislation over the past few years.

"We would also call on the Government to suspend the introduction of the proposed 'travel and subsistence' legislation until the review been completed.

"We believe that this more considered approach should deliver a framework that will allow the sector to grow and develop in line with Government expectations."

Crawford Temple, chief executive of PRISM, said: "APSCo's support is most welcome and Samantha Hurley is right to draw attention to the relentless changes the sector has been subjected to.

"It has created a situation where it is becoming increasingly difficult for providers and PRISM's members in the employment intermediary sector to plan for the future with any certainty which harms one of Britain's most attractive qualities to foreign and domestic investment, the flexible workforce."