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Poverty, exploitation and abuse – the true story behind the UK high street
Posted
13th December 2010
The struggle for a decent life for garment workers in India goes far deeper than the problem of poverty wages, a new report by Labour Behind the Label and War on Want reveals.
'Taking Liberties: the story behind the UK high street' investigates the true life accounts of workers from Gurgaon, India producing for respected high street brands M&S, Debenhams and Next.
Workers, the report reveals, suffer long hours in sweltering temperatures, verbal and physical abuse, unsafe water and poor sanitation. Life is lived in slum housing, and affording enough food is a trial. A climate of fear and insecurity is an everyday reality, where workers' choices are limited by the contractors, factory owners, landlords and authorities who control their lives.
Helpers and thread cutters in the factories featured in the report received only £60 (4,349 rupees) a month – below half a living wage of £126 needed to live a decent quality of life. Even skilled tailors and checkers earned at most £65 (4,739 rupees) a month - £2.70 a day or just 33p an hour. Violence and threats to workers who attempted to join unions and demand better conditions was also reported.
To find our more and take action visit the Labour Behind the Label website.
Related link:
http://www.labourbehindthelabel.org/campaigns/item/905-takinglibe rties