WORKERS on “exploitative” zero-hours contracts are more likely to work nights and be paid less, trade unions have said.

A new survey published by the Trades Union Congress (TUC) today indicates that precarious workers are treated far worse than those with permanent contracts.

Nearly a quarter of casually employed workers work through the night, compared to one in 10 of the rest of the workforce.

They also receive around £4.10 less an hour than other workers, and only work an average of 25 hours a week.

TUC general secretary Frances O’Grady said: “The vast majority of people on zero-hour contracts want out. 

“The only flexibility offered to them is what’s good for employers.

“Zero-hours workers regularly work through the night for low pay, putting their health at risk and many face the constant uncertainty of not knowing when their next shift will come.

“We need action from government now to stamp out these exploitative contracts once and for all.”