The crackdown is part of the launch of the new Fair Employment Enforcement Board, which will co-ordinate the work of enforcement agencies on the minimum wage, health and safety, employment agencies and gangmasters.

BERR has also launched a telephone helpline for vulnerable workers to report any abuses. Employment Relations Minister Pat McFadden said:

"We want to prevent unscrupulous employers who undercut honest competition and prey on people who are fearful or so desperate to earn a living that they are open to exploitation.

"It is vital we boost awareness of employment rights and esure those rights are properly enforced. There should be not hiding place for employers who exploit vulnerable workers and who are not prepared to obey the law."