The TUC has expressed disappointment at the Government decision to continue restrictions upon the migrant workers from Bulgaria and Romania. TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber said:

‘We are disappointed that the Government has decided to maintain these special restrictions for Romanian and Bulgarian workers. The truth is that any EU citizen is free to come to the UK and work as long as they are self-employed.

‘The main effect of the restrictions therefore is to force many Romanians and Bulgarians into bogus self-employment where they are more likely to face exploitation from employers who will use their weak position to drive down wages and conditions.

‘It is time to separate fact from prejudice in the debate on migrant workers. The UK economy now depends on a ready supply of migrant workers. As society ages we will become more dependent not less.

‘Of course there are problems caused by any sudden increase in the population of any area, but this is whether the population movement is across borders or within them. As migrant workers clearly contribute to economic success, it is right that Government should use a slice of this extra prosperity to provide the social infrastructure required, and stop the exploitation that can drive down wages and conditions.

‘Government should also ensure that every UK citizen has the skills and opportunity to find work. But politicians should beware of competing to appear tough on migrant workers who have crossed borders, and instead use the economic benefits to meet the social costs.’

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