Migrant workers 'being exploited'

The TUC claims that migrant workers are being systematically exploited

Thousands of Polish and Lithuanian workers are being exploited in the UK, according to a report from the TUC.

Of 508 workers surveyed, more than a quarter had had problems with payment, including not being paid for hours worked and unauthorised deductions.

Nearly one third of them lived in accommodation rented from their employers, which the TUC says increases firms' control over migrant workers.

Surveys were sent to people who had asked for leaflets about their rights.

"This study reveals systematic abuse of migrant workers, which is tantamount to modern day slavery," said TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber.

Since 10 new states joined the European Union in 2004, more than 475,000 Polish and Lithuanian workers have come to work in the UK.