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An investigation has been launched into “whistleblower allegations” about the practices of some “labour suppliers” to the company building the embattled HS2 rail line.
HS2 Ltd is investigating two companies that supply workers to build part of the London to Birmingham section of the line, which the i Paper, which first reported the story, says relates to the billing for the staff supplied.
The company, which is owned by the government, says it “treats all whistleblower allegations seriously” and launched an investigation earlier this year, while the Department for Transport adds that it will ensure any claims of wrongdoing are “thoroughly investigated”.
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The paper reports that the allegations relate to staff being misclassified, and therefore an inflated rate being charged to employ them.
It is understood the two firms under investigation were providing workers to one of HS2’s contractors on the West Midlands section of the line, Balfour Beatty Vinci (BBV), which is not accused of wrongdoing.
A spokesperson for HS2 Ltd says BBV has “implemented additional monitoring and controls”.
It is understood that one contractor remains suspended from new contracts while the probe continues.
An HS2 spokesperson said: “HS2 Ltd treats all whistleblower allegations seriously and we are aware of the claims made in relation to labour suppliers on part of the route.
“An investigation was launched earlier this year into a number of different allegations and our contractor Balfour Beatty VINCI has implemented additional monitoring…
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