Thank you for contacting me about unpaid work periods. This has been discussed in the Commons and I attended the debate and intervened, positively, on the proposer.
Trial periods can offer many benefits to employers and potential employees, and generally an employer does not have to pay for a trial shift so long as it is truly a trial and this is reflected in the time commitment. However, businesses are encouraged to agree payment or expenses, if any, for a trial shift in advance.
As far as it goes this is fine. Where a “trial period” is extended into what is essentially normal working without pay this is not only abuse but is, already, illegal.
I am encouraged that, in response to the Matthew Taylor review, new measures will be introduced to prevent undercutting by unscrupulous employers who try to game the system, by clearly defining who is employed and who is not. I also welcome that the Government will take further action to ensure interns are protected from exploitation.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.
