False declaration leads to revocation of Coventry gangmaster’s licence

Failing to be candid and truthful with the Gangmasters Licensing Authority (GLA), has led to the revocation of Coventry based K7‟s GLA licence.

False declarations were made on application form in 2009 and again in two subsequent renewal forms completed by the wife of the Principal Authority (PA). K7 appealed against the decision but the appeal was dismissed as the PA did not act in a „fit and proper manner‟ in line with the GLA licensing standards.

Ian Livsey, Chief Executive, GLA said

“The GLA will not tolerate false information on applications for a licence or renewal forms. Such conduct indicates that either the person doing so has not undertaken the appropriate diligence required or intends to deceive the GLA. As such they present an increased risk of legal and regulatory non-compliance and / or deception in other areas, and to workers.”

Notes to editors

1. The Gangmasters Licensing Authority (GLA) was set up to curb the exploitation of workers in the agricultural, horticultural, shellfish gathering and associated processing and packing industries.

2. Protecting workers is the key aim alongside protecting legitimate labour providers and protecting the tax payer by uncovering unpaid taxes.

3. The GLA regulate the supply of workers and labour services to any of the regulated sectors in the UK.

4. It is a criminal offence to provide labour in the industries regulated by the GLA without a licence. It is also an offence to use labour provided by unlicensed labour providers.

5. The GLA assess compliance against its Licensing Standards which reflects UK legislation, including Forced Labour Offence.

6. In December 2009 a new offence of forced labour was introduced in England and Wales, and Northern Ireland. It became an offence in Scotland in August 2010

7. The GLA issues additional guidance in its GLA Brief series, where it identifies new concerns over non-compliance.

8. Margaret McKinlay, Chairman of the GLA is available for interview.

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