Late changes to working time regulations

The government has proposed amendments to the working time regulations just as this session of Parliament draws to a close - and incurred the wrath of the TUC as a result.

Said to be designed to cut red tape for both employers and employees, the proposed changes would allow staff who can determine their own working hours to work extra time beyond the 48-hour a week limit if they chose. In addition, where the decision has been made to opt out of this limitation, employers will not be required to keep records.

The TUC argues this is a significant watering down of the regulations and blames it on the 'worst kind of business lobbying'. Unions are also angry about what they see as inadequate time allowed for consultation on the proposals.

Finally, the TUC claims to be mystified by the timing. To become law, the amendments require a vote in favour - something which can't happen until Parliament reconvenes in the autumn.

Elliott Chase