Review enforcement of employment law for unpaid internships

95
signatures
closedOpened 13 May 2025Closed 13 November 2025

Background

I would like the Government to review how employment rights are enforced for interns to ensure all those carrying out work are being paid at least the minimum wage. I think this would promote fairer, more inclusive employment practices.

Additional details

There are reports that some industries, especially fashion, media, and PR, rely on unpaid or low-paid interns. From personal experience in fashion PR, these roles are essential for gaining insight and building a career, but they often come at a personal financial cost. This creates a barrier for talented people from less privileged backgrounds who can’t afford to work for free. I believe fair pay would promote social mobility and boost the economy, as paid interns would increase local spending.

Where it’s popular

Constituencies with the most signatures on this petition.

Source: UK Government & Parliament Petitions service. Petition ID: 725231.