The steep rise in construction deaths could be linked to the expansion of the EU, according to a Labour MP.

Speaking at a Westminster debate, Jim Sheridan called for compulsory skills audits to ensure companies are suitably training migrant workers. He also said large projects, such as the Olympics, should be safeguarded by direct employment agreements.

This week, the Home Office said companies that fail to conduct proper checks on migrant workers will face hefty fines. Directors who knowingly employ illegal workers could be jailed for up to two years.