Panorama Uncovers Evidence of Blacklisting

That the Parliament notes what it considers the shocking evidence of blacklisting that was uncovered in the BBC Panorama programme televised on 10 June 2013; recognises the testimony on the programme of people who had appeared on alleged secret blacklisting files held by the Consulting Association that the details held on them in these files included trade union activity and their involvement in health and safety issues; notes the evidence on the programme of the potential blacklisting of workers on the London Crossrail project; believes that, in light of this, it is essential that the Scottish Government takes action to ensure that no companies receiving public sector contracts are engaged in blacklisting, including those companies shortlisted for the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route; congratulates the ongoing campaigns against blacklisting by Unite and other unions including the GMB and UCATT which, it understands, are pressing for measures including a full inquiry into the practice of blacklisting in Scotland and compensation for those affected, and further believes that ministers should ensure that the forthcoming Procurement Reform Bill includes provisions that will ensure that no company engaged in blacklisting can win public sector contracts.