P in Boots
To answer your question about the employment minister and voluntary work, it is unbelieveable the minster would say such voluntary work is illegal-for what reasons?
1000's of people work voluntarily for no pay because they do not want any pay, why have non of them been prosecuted for doing so illegally? Ask the employment minister that question. Additionally ask why none of the charities or hospitals have been prosecuted for accepting voluntary work.
I will repeat myself for your benefit, 1000's of people work for no pay in charities and hospitals, including my medic husband who does several hours a week medical research work completely without pay or expences-because he is dedicated in his profession.
Hospitals and charities have many people who are willing to work voluntarily, it is a well known fact and perfectly legal otherwise it would not be allowed to happen.
It has been in the media this week that BA are considering accepting VOLUNTARY work as a method to survive. BA's legal advisers would have not allowed this to happen if it was in any way illegal.