Microsoft 'investigating China factory report'
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Microsoft said on Thursday it was investigating charges that young workers at a factory in China making its mice, cameras and Xbox controllers suffer overlong working hours and harsh treatment.
A report, published by rights group the National Labor Committee earlier this week, alleged that teenaged workers at a factory operated by KYE Systems Corp in Dongguan, China, faced military-style discipline, were fined for mistakes and housed in dirty dorm rooms after working 15-hour shifts.
"We have a team of independent auditors en route to the facility to conduct a complete and thorough investigation," said Brian Tobey, who heads manufacturing for Microsoft's Entertainment and Devices unit, in a blog post on the company's website. "If we find that the factory is not adhering to our standards, we will take appropriate action."
Tobey said an independent auditor has been inspecting the KYE factory annually, while Microsoft representatives conduct quarterly on-site assessments.
"Over the past two years, we have required documentation and verification of worker age, and no incidence of child labor has been detected," said Tobey. "Worker overtime has been significantly reduced, and worker compensation is in line with the Electronic Industry Citizenship Coalition standards for the Dongguan area."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments