The CBI has commented on the Government’s Good Work Plan.
Matthew Fell, CBI Chief UK Policy Director,
said:
“Work that’s flexible and fair is essential to the success
of the UK’s labour market.
“Companies support the Good Work agenda because there is a
strong business case for it. Focusing on issues like employee
engagement, fairness and inclusion boost productivity as well as
being the right thing to do.
“Businesses support a strong floor of workplace rights, and
it’s right that these laws keep pace with changes in the economy
and society. They welcome a new law giving all workers the right
to request more predictable working hours which will help to
facilitate the conversations that are essential to ensuring
flexibility benefits both parties. However, legislation to amend
employment status rules risks making the law less able to adapt
to new forms of work in the future.”
On the removal of the Swedish Derogation, Matthew
said:
“Companies have consistently called for reform to ensure
the current rules are working as intended. A phased removal over
time is needed to help firms and their workers identify a
suitable alternative contractual arrangement.”
On consulting on changes to National Minimum Wage
rules, Matthew said:
“The Minimum Wage is an integral part of the strong floor
of rights that ensure fairness at work. Businesses will welcome
changes designed to ensure that employers can continue to offer
contracts that give workers greater income security without
breaking a technicality in minimum wage rules”
On the UK Labour Market Enforcement Strategy
2018/19, Matthew said:
“Effective enforcement of employment rules is vital to fair
competition. 95% of companies think that labour market
enforcement should be improved. Businesses will welcome being
made aware of non-compliance in their supply chains as these are
also a breach of contract. Joint-working can ensure the best
outcome for affected workers.”
On naming and shaming for non-payment of tribunal
awards, Matthew said:
“Good businesses understand that Employment Tribunal awards
must be paid. Naming companies who fail to do so may help in some
cases but is unlikely to have much impact on firms who do not
have a well-known brand.”
