Clancy was responding to the review of modern working practices published today (11 July). He said:

“Prospect has long campaigned for Government to recognise the importance of “good work” to our economic strength and quality of life, so greater public debate about this issue is to be welcomed.

“As a union representing many self-employed contractors and freelancers, especially in our media and entertainment sector (BECTU), we are determined to ensure they are empowered, supported and protected. We will therefore examine Matthew Taylor’s proposals carefully.

“The world of work is changing fast, and the variety of different models and practices is increasing.

“There is clearly a risk that apparently simple solutions could fail to give the most vulnerable and exploited workers the protections they need, while weakening employment relations in areas where workers and their unions have learned to organise and negotiate effectively.

“It is vital that the Government now proceeds in a way that is informed by detailed consultation with stakeholders who will have more detailed sectoral knowledge, including trade unions.

“One thing is clear: new rules and rights are not worth the paper they are written on unless they can be enforced. That means tougher inspection regimes and abolishing fees that deter workers from taking legitimate cases to employment tribunals.

“Most importantly, it means removing barriers to union recruitment, organisation and recognition – because the best protection and strongest voice for workers in any sector will always be the collective bargaining and influence that only a strong trade union can provide,” Clancy concluded.