CAMPAIGNERS in York will stage a protest this weekend against controversial Workfare schemes introduced by the Government.

Organisers of the rally, held by York Welfare Campaign, say they will “target” leading retailers who are signed up the schemes, which opponents have claimed are a way of allowing companies to use cheap labour rather than as a way of finding employment.

“We want all schemes which force job-seekers and disabled people into working for nothing under threat of benefit sanctions to be scrapped and for the minimum wage to be properly enforced,” said campaigner Mark Bentley.

“Until then, companies will just replace paid staff with unpaid staff.”

The protest will be held in the city centre from 1pm on Saturday.