MAKERFIELD MP Ian MacCartney has alerted job hunters not to pay agencies to find work for them.

And the DTI Minister of State has sent out a clear message to the industry he will not hesitate to take action against agencies who illegally exploit people looking for work.

He said: "Except in the modelling and entertainment industries it is illegal for employment agencies to charge workers for seeking work for them."

The warning follows a case when Southwark Crown Court rejected an appeal by the agency, First Point International Limited, over its conviction for offences under the Employment Agencies Act 1973 after it faced fines and costs totalling £22,950.

The firm was convicted by Bow Street Magistrates' Court in March for demanding and receiving money from a worker who was seeking employment abroad.

Clients were asked to buy an appraisal pack for £99.95 and then asked for a further sum of more than £3,000.

The agency placed advertisements in national newspapers and claimed to be able to secure overseas job offers.

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