NEWS RELEASE Thursday 1st April 2004
STUC says Beverley Hughes no loss and look forward to meeting new Minister Des Browne in the near future
Commenting on the resignation of immigration Minister Beverley Hughes, STUC General Secretary Bill Speirs said today:
"The STUC regularly raised concerns with Beverley Hughes about lack of Government action to protect immigrant workers in Scotland from exploitation and abuse by some bosses, and about the treatment of families at Dungavel."
"I have to say her responses were extremely disappointing, both in terms of content, and her continued refusal to meet with the STUC to discuss these issues. Her approach was in stark contrast to the progressive stance in relation to immigration being taken by Jack McConnell and the Scottish Executive."
" We now look forward to a more positive dialogue and a quick meeting preferably before our Annual Congress - with the new Minister, Des Browne, both on Dungavel and on the continuing economic exploitation of immigrant workers in this country".
ENDS
For further details contact:
Bill Speirs David Moxham