A gangmaster that supplied labour to fresh produce companies in Suffolk has been shut down for its "callous disregard for worker safety and exploitation".

Vilnius Recruitment of Leiston in Suffolk supplied 350 workers to companies in East Anglia including Sutton Hoo Produce, Whartons Nurseries and Gressingham Foods.

Their duties included picking cabbages, cutting roses and working in a duck factory. However, the Gangmasters Licensing Authority uncovered a range of abuses such as uninsured transport, overcrowded accommodation and health and safety infringements .

Vilnius director Neros Nerijus had his licence revoked last October pending appeal, but was allowed to continue trading. However, conditions had worsened, according to the GLA. "This labour provider has shown an astonishing lack of awareness of the seriousness of these issues," said GLA chairman Paul Whitehouse. "We shall be keeping an eye on Nerijus."

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