Migrant workers' skills 'needed'

The majority of migrant workers come to earn a living

Tens of thousands of migrants working in the East of England are contributing more than £360m a year to the regional economy a new report says.

But many are poorly treated and badly paid, says the study commissioned by the East of England Development Agency.

It estimates there are between 50,000 and 80,000 migrants in the region.

Most migrant workers have jobs requiring a low skill level where there are major shortages and often work long hours, says the report.

They often work in agriculture, construction, health, food processing, hotels and catering in the East of England.

Less than minimum wage

The research found that if migrant workers were not available some businesses would not be able to function properly.

It found that many migrant workers are paid the national minimum wage or less.

It says life for many of the migrant workers in the region has improved as more are being treated with dignity and work through reputable agencies but not all are so lucky.

For example, rules and regulations can prevent those who are highly skilled in areas such as nursing from being able to easily transfer their skills.

'Treated with dignity'

Richard Ellis, chair of EEDA, said: "This research should be read by everyone who works with migrant workers.

"This research tells us all a tremendous amount about the contribution which migrant workers have made to the East of England.

"The fact that so many companies and businesses could not function without them is a testimony to their value.

"The report highlights areas of good practice where companies have made substantial efforts to treat their workers with dignity and help them in any way they can.

"The lead which these exemplar companies take needs to be copied and repeated."