Automaker Volkswagen (VW) Group has signed a charter laying down principles for the use of temporary work throughout the company. 

The charter establishes that “the moderate use of temporary work is a necessary flexibility tool. A share of 5% temporary employees is a guideline”.

The agreement, signed by representatives across the business, also establishes that temporary employees should be paid the same as permanent staff – with this due to be implemented “in a staged plan”.

It also guarantees training and establishes that alongside vocational training and trainee programmes and direct external recruitment, temporary work will be a route to permanent employment at VW.

Berthold Huber, the president of the IndustriAll Global Union and German metalworkers union IG Metall, adds: “The agreement between the employer and employee representatives that temporary work will not be misused as a tool for cost reduction is further confirmation of the special culture of codetermination at Volkswagen. This codetermination culture is one of the main reasons for the success and strength of Volkswagen.”