Bid to stamp out worker blacklisting

Moves to outlaw the blacklisting of trade union members by employers, denying workers the right to a job, were stepped up today when the Government launched a consultation on new regulations.

Business Secretary Lord Mandelson said blacklisting someone just because they were in a union was "totally unacceptable".

The Government is taking action after the revelation earlier this year that a number of construction companies had subscribed to a database used to vet workers, which has now been closed.

"I am determined to act quickly to stamp out this despicable practice. Today's proposals outline how we will deliver this," said Lord Mandelson.

The main proposals include making it unlawful for organisations to refuse employment or sack individuals if they were on a blacklist and allowing workers to seek compensation.

The consultation will run for a shorter-than-usual six weeks and legislation will be introduced "as soon as possible".