Public sector bodies in Wales can exclude blacklisters from bidding for public sector contracts under new Welsh Government guidance that aims to eradicate the practice, Finance Minister Jane Hutt has announced.

Blacklisting is a practice where individuals have been denied employment opportunities because of their trade union membership or their involvement in trade union activity.

It is known to have been used by construction companies operating in Wales, and to have involved Welsh construction workers.

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A Procurement Advice Note has been issued to all Welsh public bodies to outline the necessary steps that can be taken through procurement to help eradicate blacklisting – which can be very damaging to the careers and livelihoods of trade unionists.

The guidance makes clear those circumstances where Welsh public sector bodies can exclude blacklisters from bidding for a public contract.

Minister Hutt said: "The use of blacklists is wholly unacceptable and I fully sympathise with the individuals and their families who have suffered a terrible injustice as a consequence of contractors engaging in this practice.

"Procurement is an important part of the overall policy toolkit of the Welsh Government. Under no circumstances is it acceptable for any business in receipt of public procurement expenditure to use blacklists.

"I am determined to take action in Wales. I trust that other Governments in the UK will take similar action if they have not already done so."

(CD/JP)