Councils must stop using blacklisted workers, GMB cautions

Worker’s union, the GMB has urged councils and other public bodies to stop issuing work to companies which have been found to enlist blacklisted construction workers.

The news comes after the Information Commissioner’s Office seized a Consulting Association database of 3,213 construction workers and environmental activists, which was used by 44 companies to recruit employees and avoid employment trade union and health and safety activists.

The discovery was made seven years ago, but was settled out of court last month, costing building firms considerably with £50 million being paid out in compensation to 771 workers.

Justin Bowden, national officer of the GMB union, said: “Having established that the construction companies lied and denied before finally caving in and paying their way out of a hugely embarrassing trial, it is time now for local authorities and other public bodies to stand by their promises to stop using blacklisting companies.

“GMB will be ensuring all local authorities are fully informed about their obligations in relation to procurement and blacklisting companies, and where taxpayers' money is spent.”