Thousands of freelancers – so-called ‘one-man bands’ – have petitioned the European Parliament for more support and recognition of their sector with in the business hierarchy.

More than 3,000 independent professionals from across Europe signed up in support of the Freelancers' Manifesto, which primarily asks for more recognition at the EU level.

Self-employment is a huge growth area in the UK economy with more than 500,000 people setting up as a sole-trader or single-person limited company since 2008.

Yet freelancers complain of ill-treatment, including being paid late, and average income in the sector is comparatively low.

The sector is also the fastest growing part of the wider European labour market, with the number of freelancers increasing nearly 100 per cent in some countries in a single year.

Andy Chamberlain, spokesman for the European Forum of Independent Professionals (EFIP), said: “The Freelancers’ Manifesto sets out simple and clear policies that the new European Parliament can support which will hugely help freelancers, politicians and businesses across Europe.

“Improving access to training and services and better regulation that specifically considers the unique needs of independent professionals are just some of the ways the new EU Parliament can support freelancers.”