A report released by the Cambodia-based NGO Center for Alliance of Labour & Human Rights has called into question some labour practices at H&M’s suppliers in the country.
H&M has strongly denied the allegations, which included reports of workers fainting on the factory floor, wage cuts for arriving only a few minutes late, inadequate sick leave practices and restrictions on toilet breaks.

The report follows the investigation of three of the fashion retailer's “platinum suppliers” and one “gold supplier”.

H&M said that it demands that its people are “treated with respect and that our business partners offer their employees good working conditions."

A spokesman added: "All our suppliers need to sign our strict code of conduct and follow national legislation and we regularly check that our demands are followed through unannounced and announced visits," the spokesman said.

"During these visits we also interview factory workers to make sure our suppliers follow our requirements.

"Transparency and openness in the supply chain is important to achieve positive change and we were the first fashion retailer to publish our supplier list. We also work hard on strengthening workers’ rights and their possibilities to negotiate through unions or worker representatives."