Liberal Democrat Edward Davey MP has been appointed as minister with responsibility for recruitment industry regulations within the Department for Business (BIS).

Following the confirmation of Davey’s appointment, REC head of policy Anne Fairweather says the immediate priority for the industry will be to work with the new minister on the UK implementation of the Agency Work Regulations.  

“The REC will be making immediate representations to ensure that the industry’s concerns are taken on board and that the vital role of agency work is well understood. The current economic climate makes it more important than ever to implement the regulations in a way that protects the flexibility of the UK labour market.

“As part of this, we need to work closely with the new government on the official guidance that will underpin the regulations and bring much needed clarity to some of the requirements. The practical feedback from recruiters will play a key role in informing this guidance document.”