It is important workers get a fair deal. While not suitable for everyone, I know that some employees benefit from these types of contracts, as they offer a greater degree of flexibility. It is important to note that over two-thirds of the 2.3 million private sector jobs created during the last Parliament were full-time jobs, a record I am proud of. In Bath we have also seen the claimant count reduce in half since 2010. However, it is important to make sure that those benefitting from the flexibility of these contracts are not exploited by unscrupulous employers.
I am proud that the Government legislated to ban exploitative zero hours contracts so employers can no longer prevent someone on a contract of this kind from only working for them even when no work is guaranteed. Ministers were right to take bold action in this area and stand up for fairness and this ban was further strengthened in January this year by creating a route of redress for individuals via an employment tribunal.
There should be no place for rogue employers in our labour market, and I am glad changes have been made which raise the maximum fine for employers who fail to pay the minimum wage. It is important that employers who flout the rules know they will face the full force of the law.
I am aware that the management of Sports Direct have given evidence to the Business Select Committee, and its report will no doubt inform debate in Parliament in near the future.