Primark has issued a statement saying that it’s Code of Conduct sets out strict ethical standards that must be adhered to by all companies that want to do business with the retailer. The Code expressly bans the use of child labour and additionally bans sub-contracting without specific consent and agreement.

Detailed investigation allege that these factories had sub-contracted embroidery and sequin work on a small number of designs to unapproved sub-contractors without Primark’s consent or knowledge. The affected garments represent 0.04% of Primark’s worldwide sourcing. The sub-contracting involved home working and in some instances children were also allegedly found to be working at home.