Unite has welcomed commitments given by Crossrail for a directly employed workforce for the prestige cross-London rail project currently under construction.

Unite, the largest union in the country, is opposed to 'bogus self employment' on the project which will run from Paddington to Abbey Wood in the east, as it deprives the economy of millions of pounds in tax revenue.

Unite will also be seeking 'gold standards' in health and safety during the building of Crossrail which is due to open in 2018, increasing the capital's rail capacity by 10 per cent. It is expected to generate at least £36bn to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

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Unite Regional Officer, Vince Passfield said: "Unite welcomes the commitments given towards direct employment and our national agreements. Bogus self-employment plagues the construction industry and deprives the economy of millions in tax revenue.

"Unite will seek to work with Crossrail to ensure project compliance through a structured consultation process. Our aspirations are high in regard to Crossrail's pledge for training and development and we will hold them accountable for ensuring that these promises are delivered."

(CD)