Employment Law Update (April 2009)

Future of Working Time opt-out still in balance

Representatives from the UK have been unable to secure a deal on changes to the Working Time Directive that would allow the UK to retain the 48 hour working week "opt-out" provisions. If agreement cannot be reached, the European Parliament has decreed that the opt-out will have to go within three years.

However, the government remains hopeful of negotiating a deal in the months to come, in spite of the European Parliament voting down the previous proposals.

It seems likely that a deal will eventually be struck that allows the opt-out to continue but subject to different conditions to the present situation, which allows employees to opt out individually and from day one of their employment.

Mentor will keep you informed of developments and any action you should take.