'Workers Must Not Pay Price Of Brexit' - TUC Boss

The leader of Britain's trade unions is calling on Theresa May to fight to keep the UK in Europe's single market post-Brexit to protect jobs.

The plea comes from Frances O'Grady, TUC general secretary, amid conflicting signals from senior Cabinet ministers about whether the Government wants to stay in the single market.

In her big set-piece speech at the TUC conference in Brighton - set to be dominated by the vote to leave the EU, Ms O'Grady will say working people must not be made to pay the price for Brexit.

"Whether you voted Leave or Remain, now the vote is over our job is to get the best deal possible for working people," she will way on day two of the conference.

"We must build a Britain that is successful, prosperous and fair - a Britain of great jobs for everyone.

"Government must be ready to step in and work to keep the advantages we get from membership of the single market - for all of our industries, not just the City. That's the key to a successful Brexit for working people."

Last week, the Prime Minister slapped down Brexit Secretary David Davis after he told MPs (BSE: MPSLTD.BO - news) the UK could leave the single market, insisting his comments were "not Government policy".

The TUC leader will also set out five tests to be met before the Prime Minister triggers Article 50 to leave the EU:

:: EU citizens living and working in the UK guaranteed the right to remain;
:: An all-Ireland (Other OTC: IRLD - news) agreement on economic and border issues;
:: Spell out what the Government wants under "Brexit means Brexit;
:: A cross-party negotiating team, including the nations, London and the North;
:: Before Article 50, proof that workers' rights will be safe.

In her conference speech, Ms O'Grady will also pledge to fight worker exploitation typified by Sports Direct, which is becoming more widespread, she will tell delegates in Brighton.

"Sports Direct may be in the spotlight now, but they are not the only ones," she will say." There are other big companies that bring shame on our country.

"So let me give fair warning to any greedy business that treats its workers like animals - we will shine a light on you.

"Run a big brand with a dirty little secret? A warehouse of people paid less than the minimum wage? A fleet of couriers who are slaves to an app? Let me put you on notice.

"There will be no hiding place. We will organise and we will win. Britain's unions will not rest until every worker gets the fair treatment they deserve."