I鈥檓 writing in reference to the recruitment agencies fined for price fixing (2 October, page 10)

Having worked through agencies for many years and been an employer myself, I had wondered why, since 2000, hourly rates had not gone up much at all.

Agencies are usually seen as a necessary evil, but an evil none the less. For what they charge, they do very little and are often an intrusion in the employment process. Employers keep telling me how serious the skills shortage is and yet the hourly rates and salaries are far too low.

Professional skilled staff will keep spinning out of the industry while the rates are kept too low. Perhaps employers should consider bypassing the agencies and dealing directly with potential employees as they once did.

HOS, via building.co.uk

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