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Network Rail bosses quizzed over zero-hours 'voluntary code'

NETWORK RAIL bosses struggled yesterday to flog their subcontractors’ voluntary code of conduct to a panel of MPs investigating zero-hours contracts.

Crossrail programme director Rob McIntosh told MPs that the latest draft called on subcontractors to ensure their workforce was “treated ethically,” while route managing director David Dickson said the code represented “our criteria with our contractors for the minimum standards that we’d expect.”

But the pair were soon forced to admit under questioning that the code made “no specific” demands — whether on the use of zero-hours contracts, annual leave, sick pay or maternity and paternity leave.

“We consider that to be the relationship between the employer and employee,” Mr McIntosh said.

The committee’s chair, Labour MP Ian Davidson, was appalled.

“So they have to abide by the letter of the law, which is what they have to do anyway. But you’re quite happy for them to do the bare minimum,” he replied.

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