A LAW which aims to crack down on rogue gangmasters in order to prevent another More-cambe Bay tragedy comes into force this week.

From April 1, the Gangmasters (Licensing) Bill means that it will be illegal for gangmasters to employ people without having a license.

The Private Members Bill was introduced by Jim Sheridan, MP for Renfrewshire West, in the wake of the Morecambe Bay tradegy.

Last September, Morecambe and Lunesdale MP Geraldine Smith and more than 30 others signed a motion in the Commons calling for improved safety laws and temporary work permits for the people working in dangerous situations - such as Morecambe Bay.

Ms Smith, who had warned of the risks before the tragedy, says she believes the Bill will 'significantly strengthen attem-pts to curb the exploitative activities of gangmasters'.