September 13, 2011
According to reports in the Telegraph, the controversial Agency Workers Regulations could yet be amended by the coalition Government after increased criticism.
Due to come into force on 1 October 2011, the Agency Workers Regulations grant agency workers the same rights to pay, benefits, rest periods and holidays as someone recruited directly by the hirer after 12 weeks on assignment.
However, this week the Telegraph revealed that the Government has sought expert legal advice on the legislation, resulting in elements of the regulation being “stripped away” as they have been unnecessarily included.
“We are now looking at every part of employment law as part of the red tape challenge. We want to do everything we can to help employers and drive growth,” a Downing Street spokesman told the Telegraph.
The move has been welcomed by employment bodies, with Alexander Ehmann, Head of Regulatory Affairs at the Institute of Directors (IoD) “applauding” the Government’s decision to “rethink the implementation of the Agency Workers Directive”.
“The IoD has long argued that vital improvements can be made by stripping away the unnecessary gold-plating in these regulations,” he added.
Unsure about the Agency Worker Regulations and how they could affect your business? Consult employment experts before the October 1 deadline passes.
