The REC has once again emphasised the value that temporary workers and contractors bring to the public sector.

This comes after cabinet secretary Francis Maude noted that a decrease of 75 per cent permanent appointments has occurred, along with a 30 per cent decrease in spend on agency workers.

Tom Hadley, the REC's director of policy and professional services, said that temporary workers are once again being seen as an easy target and slashing agency budgets is being applauded.

He added that the public sector must move away from this perception and said that agency staff are often highly trained professionals making a great contribution to services.

"Of course costs need to be carefully managed, but flexible staffing arrangements and the use of specialised recruitment providers are crucial means of delivering services and supporting the core workforce."

Meanwhile, research by PCG has revealed that 60 per cent of business leaders believe that their businesses would find it difficult to manage without the help of contractors.