The Department of Trade & Industry (DTI) has published a consultation paper outlining new laws designed to give employees a greater voice in the decision-making process.

Under the European Information and Consultation Directive, staff and their representatives will be able to consult management on any matter that affects employment, such as redundancies, contractual issues, takeovers and mergers. Where requested, workers councils will be created to consult with management.

The directive must take effect in the UK for firms with 150 staff or more by March 2005. It will extend to those with 100 or more in 2007, and to those with 50 or more by 2008. The consultation closes on 7 November 2003.

The BPIFs head of legal affairs, Anne Copley, said that it would mean a major upheaval in industrial relations.

She said the BPIF would want the regulations to be framed in the most economical way for the industry to make them workable, and is asking companies to contact the BPIF with their views so it can prepare a response.

GPMU deputy general secretary Tony Burke said the directive was a step in the right direction.

This is a very important piece of legislation that will change a lot about industrial relations over the next 10 years, and for the printing industry it is a welcome development. Its good to talk, he said.


Copley's consultation questions
How will the consultative model work?
Will existing models already in place be sufficient?
What percentage of the workforce will trigger the need to consult?
What role will trade unions play?

Anne Copley can be contacted via email at anne.copley@bpif.org.uk.


Story by Andy Scott