Speaking at his first conference as Labour leader, Jeremy Corbyn has pledged to give Britain’s contractors and other independent workers maternity, paternity and sick pay.
Mr Corbyn recognised that people who work for themselves now represent one in seven workers, but do not enjoy the same privileges as their fellow countrymen.  He has pledged that to remedy this, if elected to power will consider opening statutory paternity and maternity pay.  Mr Corbyn also acknowledged the current problems with regards to paid leave and pensions and also pointed out that independent workers are soon to lose tax credits.
The Freelancer & Contractor Services Association have commented that in the past contractors have felt penalised by Labour and they are looking forward to hearing more details about Mr Corbyn’s plans to help what they refer to as the UK’s vital flexible workforce.