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Making Work Pay - Call for Evidence on Unpaid Internships
17 July 2025
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Department for Business and Trade
At a Glance
Issue Summary
The statement addresses the issue of unpaid internships and the need to ensure fair pay for workers.
Action Requested
The government is launching a 12-week call for evidence to gather views from employers, individuals, and stakeholders on unpaid internships, work trials, voluntary workers, volunteers, and work shadowing. The goal is to inform future policy changes aimed at preventing exploitation of workers, especially young people.
Key Facts
- The government committed to banning unpaid internships unless they are part of a formal educational or training course.
- The call for evidence will last 12 weeks.
- Voluntary workers and volunteers are not entitled to the National Minimum Wage but some employers misuse these categories to avoid paying workers.
- The responses will help shape future policy on these issues.
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Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy