According to the Fair Employment Enforcement Board (FEEB), which will oversee the new forum, it is intended to protect "vulnerable employees".

However, small printers and finishers that are repeatedly losing money due to unscrupulous managers in the printing industry may also be interested in the government's plans.

The new Board will be chaired by the Employment Relations Minister and will include representatives from business and trade unions, as well as the enforcement agencies.

Employment Relations Minister and forum chair Pat McFadden said: "The Forum found there are still dark corners of the labour market where rogue employers seek to mistreat their workers and more needs to be done to safeguard people's rights.

"We want to prevent unscrupulous employers who undercut honest competition and prey on people who are fearful or so desperate to earn a living that they are open to exploitation. There should be no hiding place for employers who exploit vulnerable workers and who are not prepared to obey the law."

The strategy includes a single telephone helpline for vulnerable workers to report abuses to the Government's workplace enforcement agencies. It also aims to break down barriers between agencies so vital information can be shared in order to catch rogue employers.

A £6m information campaign to raise awareness of employment rights and how to enforce them is also being launched.

The FEEB will co-ordinate the work of the government enforcement agencies covering minimum wage, health and safety, employment agencies and gangmasters.

Other measures in the report include strengthening the Employment Agencies Standards Inspectorate and more contact between the enforcement agencies, advice bodies, community groups and others.