Following a recent call for evidence, the Government has opened a consultation over the statutory rules on collective redundancies, with a view to reforms that will improve consultation quality and the ability of employers to respond to changing market conditions, while balancing the interests of redundant employees with those who remain in employment.
To create a more effective collective redundancy regime, BIS are consulting on a package of reforms, based around three proposals: (1) Reducing the 90-day minimum consultation period for large redundancies of a 100 or more employees and views on the impact of using either 30 or 45 days. (2) Issuing a new, non-statutory, Code of Practice which will address a number of key issues affecting redundancy consultations. The Code would address the principles and behaviours behind a good quality consultation, with a particular focus on dealing effectively with the most contentious issues. (3) Improving guidance for employers and employees on the support on offer from government. BIS will review the existing guidance to ensure that it is accurate and fit for purpose and that people who need it are able to access it when they need it as currently, the call for evidence demonstrated that employers and employees are not always aware of the resources available to them, and when to take advantage of them. The consultation closes on 19 September 2012.
This provides summary information and comment on the subject areas covered. Where employment tribunal and appellate court cases are reported, the information does not set out all of the facts, the legal arguments presented and the judgments made in every aspect of the case. Employment law is subject to constant change either by statute or by interpretation by the courts. While every care has been taken in compiling this information, we cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. Specialist legal advice must be taken on any legal issues that may arise before embarking upon any formal course of action.
