County Durham gangmaster loses licence after ignoring GLA requests

A County Durham gangmaster that supplied workers to the forestry industry has had his licence revoked after failing to respond to GLA requests despite numerous chances.

Mr Campbell Sinclair the Principal Authority of NE Tree Company based in Ferryhill, was asked to provide evidence that an Additional Licensing Condition had been resolved. Despite numerous chances to provide this information and warnings that the licence would be revoked if this was not complied with, the information was never provided.

Paul Whitehouse, Chairman of the GLA said:

“We gave this gangmaster every chance to comply with the law. If that opportunity is not taken we have no choice but to revoke the licence”.

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. The majority of workers involved in these industries come from countries such as: Romania, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Bulgaria, Lithuania, Latvia, Pakistan and Portugal.

3. So far, 1,230 labour providers hold a GLA licence. Ninety Three licenses have been revoked (Eight with immediate effect).

4. The GLA stepped up its fight against those who abuse workers with the launch of Operation Ajax in June 2008. The operation was set up to increase the GLA’s activities with an 18 month programme of unannounced raids.

5. Paul Whitehouse, GLA Chairman, is available for interview by contacting 0115 900 8962

6. Anybody who is aware of exploitation should contact the GLA on 0845 602 5020 or report anonymously at www.gla.gov.uk/report

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Public enquiries: 0845 602 5020

Media enquiries: 0115 900 8962

www.gla.gov.uk