The Government has recently published its much anticipated (in our office anyway!) Employment Bill.

Of most interest is probably the proposed abolition of the unpopular Statutory Dismissal and Grievance Procedures.  These will be replaced with a revised ACAS Code of Practice and Tribunals will have a discretion to adjust awards by up to 25% if either employer or employee unreasonably fails to comply with the revised code.

Another key measure under the Bill is the abolition of the fixed ACAS conciliation periods. The position will revert to how it was before 2004, with ACAS assistance available up until any hearing date.

Employers and employment agencies failing to pay the national minimum wage will face new penalties. The current maximum of £5,000 is to increase to an unlimited fine following trial in the Crown Court.

The Bill is currently progressing through Parliament.  We will bring you further news as to its progress, and that of the revised ACAS Code, when we have it.

Posted: December 21st, 2007 under Employment/HR.
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