GLA – Supermarket Protocol

The Gangmasters Licensing Authority (GLA) has launched a consultation today on a protocol between the GLA and leading supermarkets to help combat labour exploitation in the UK.

Developed through discussions with ASDA, Iceland, Marks and Spencer, Morrisons, Sainsbury‟s, Tesco, the Co-operative and Waitrose, it seeks to establish common principles for how the GLA and the supermarkets will work together. T

his includes exchanging information on workplace abuse and conducting joint visits in the supply chain. The consultation will bring suppliers, labour providers and all those affected into the initiative. All parties in the supply chain have a role to play in making this protocol a success.

Paul Whitehouse, Chairman of the GLA, said:

“This protocol seeks to take advantage of the supermarkets and their supply chains‟ efforts to act in an ethical and socially responsible way. This consultation gives everybody the opportunity to contribute and I would urge people to put their views forward.”

Nigel Jenney, Chief Executive of the Fresh Produce Consortium, said:

“The GLA and Retailers‟ protocol must treat retailers and suppliers as „equal and constructive partners‟ and industry feedback is needed to ensure relationships between retailers and their suppliers/labour users are not undermined by it. FPC is urging the sector to get involved and ensure that their views are heard. We need to ensure that the Protocol works for all parties involved in the supply chain.”

Notes to editors

1. The consultation is available from the GLA website (www.gla.gov.uk) and runs from 8 May to 31 July 2009.

2. Paul Whitehouse, GLA Chairman, is available for interview.

Please ring 0115 900 8962.

More information on the GLA‟s work is available on the Authority's website

Public enquiries: 0845 602 5020

Media enquiries: 0115 900 8962

www.gla.gov.uk