Employment relations minister Ed Davey met with the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) to talk through the latest Agency Workers Regulations (AWR) developments.

The minister spoke with a number of REC members who informed him of the predominant concerns of umbrella companies in the UK at the moment.

In addition, the government has invited the REC to interact in a series of workshops designed so that companies can give feedback on the new AWR guidance.

Kevin Green, the REC's chief executive commented on last weeks discussion, saying the company was delighted the minister came to meet with members and that the event was significant in both symbolic and practical ways.

"There is a genuine desire to engage with the industry and we will continue to take the views and concerns of our members to the highest levels of government," he said.

This comes after David Cameron praised the large contribution contractors make to the economy on National Freelancers Day last month.