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Workers set to gain consultation rights
Plans to make sure that managers consult workers on decisions affecting their future are set out in a new consultation document.
Trade and Industry Secretary Patricia Hewitt said she wants the changes to lead to a ‘no surprises’ culture at work and “an end to the climate where people only hear about job losses from the media, over their breakfasts.”
The plans for improved information and consultation in the workplace are a framework for implementing a European Directive on employment law. They will mean that employees have the chance to be informed and consulted on issues like:
- Employment prospects
- Changes in work organisation or contractual relations, including redundancies
- Economic prospects for their industry
Ms Hewitt said the government has agreed the proposals with the Confederation of British Industry and the Trades Union Congress through constructive dialogue and discussion. “It’s exactly the spirit in which we all want new rules on information and consultation to operate in workplaces across Britain,” she said.
The European Information and Consultation Directive takes effect for firms with 150 employees or more in 2005, those with 100 or more in 2007, and those with 50 or more in 2008.
Organisations will be able to agree with their employees the information and consultation arrangements that best suit their needs and circumstances. Companies that break the rules could face a fine of up to £75,000.
The deadline for responses to the consultation is 7 November 2003. You can find out how to take part on the Department of Trade and Industry website.
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