§ Mr. MeacherTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what assessment she has made of the current prevalence of zero-hours contracts; how many employees are estimated to be employed under such contracts; how many companies operate them; and what action she proposes to take in respect of such contracts. [20868]
§ Mr. ForthThe Department monitors developments in the labour market, including current working practices. Although there is no nationally representative information, the limited evidence available suggests the use of zero-hours contracts is not widespread. The Department believes it is for employers and employees to decide for themselves the form of work that best suits their particular circumstances.