GLA Backed by Triennial Review

The work of the GLA was today given an official stamp of approval in the findings of the latest Triennial Review.

These reviews are carried out on all Non-Departmental Public Bodies (NDPBs) to ensure the respective roles they perform are necessary, and that they are complying with principles of good corporate governance.

The GLA review concluded that the functions it performs are necessary, and that it remains the right body for delivering them. It also concludes that the GLA should remain an NDPB but should seek to reduce the size of its governance board.

It also stated that the authority should continue working to deliver reforms that were under way – namely, reducing the financial and administrative burdens on compliant businesses, while exploring opportunities for alternative sources of revenue.

GLA Chair, Margaret McKinlay, welcomed the publication of the Triennial Review Report into GLA.

She said: “The report recognises that the functions of the GLA are still necessary, a fact that we ourselves know only too well.

“As recommended in the document, the GLA is continuing to seek ways of working in partnership with industry and with other enforcement bodies to root out those who exploit workers to their own advantage.

“The GLA also agrees that compliant companies have the right to a level playing field so their business can grow and prosper - and we strive to make this a reality. In implementing the Government’s proposals for a smaller board the GLA will work to ensure that the voices of its wide variety of stakeholders will continue to be heard, as also recommended in the Triennial Report.

“The recently announced move, whereby the GLA is now sponsored by the Home Office will, we believe, lead to a more effective, joined up approach in the fight against those driven by greed who seek to exploit workers.”

The written ministerial statement about the review was laid in the House of Commons by Karen Bradley MP and can be viewed by clicking here.

The full report can be seen by clicking here.

Press release issued by GLA Communications and Information Officer Paul Fearn. For more information contact 0115 959 7069 or email communications@gla.gsi.gov.uk.

Notes to editors

1. The GLA operates throughout the UK and is a Non Departmental Public Body.

2. The authority was formed in 2005 in the wake of the Morecambe Bay cockle picking disaster when 23 Chinese workers drowned on the sands.

3. The GLA licences companies that supply labour (gangmasters) to agriculture, horticulture, food processing and packaging and shellfish gathering.

4. Its main strategic priorities are to prevent worker exploitation, protect vulnerable people and tackle unlicensed and criminal activity.

5. Under the Gangmasters Licensing Act (2004) it is illegal both to operate as, or employ the services of, an unlicensed gangmaster.

www.gla.defra.gov.uk