Member

on the use of enforcement powers. This would be a simple but vital mechanism. The powers given to enforcement officers under Clause 87 are significant. They include rights of entry, inspection and seizure. While such powers are necessary to tackle serious abuses in the labour market, they must be exercised with care, consistency and, above all, accountability. This amendment would not constrain those powers; rather, it would ensure that their use could be monitored independently and scrutinised transparently. It would give those affected by enforcement action a clear route to raise concerns and would ensure that Parliament and the public could see how these powers are being used year after year. Independent oversight is standard in many regulatory regimes, and the amendment would bring labour market enforcement in line with best practice. It would help to protect against the misuse of power, safeguard public trust and ultimately strengthen the legitimacy of enforcement itself.