One of the country's biggest driver agencies has cautiously welcomed proposals in a government consultation document to protect vulnerable agency workers.

Among the proposals, which have the backing of employment relations minister Jim Fitzpatrick, is a stipulation which says that driver agencies that flout the law and knowingly allow drivers to work beyond their hours can face criminal prosecution.

John Elvidge, group quality manager for DriverHire, says that the enforcement of any new proposals will be key to their success, as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) steps up its efforts on behalf of vulnerable agency workers.

Elvidge, who met with the DTI last summer to discuss the proposals, told Recruiter: "The proof will be in the pudding. The enforcement of it is the key.

"If the DTI wants these to work, then it has to put more resources into policing them."

Tim Millward, chairman of driving and industrial specialist Extrastaff, also backed the call for increased enforcement.

He told Recruiter that, despite the Morecambe Bay disaster of 2004, which helped bring about the Gangmasters' Licensing Act, rogue operators would still operate regardless of the legal environment.

"The constant, extra legislative burden put upon the reputable service providers, such as ourselves, is as ever ignored by the bad apples. What's needed is better enforcement of existing legislation rather than more red tape," he said.

To see the document in more detail, visit www.dti.gov.uk.