Updating author: Marc Meryon

On this page:
Summary
Future developments
Action point checklist
Key references
Questions and answers
Which undertakings are covered?
What happens if an EWC is requested?

Summary

7.500

• The obligation to establish a European Works Council arose in the UK following the implementation of the Transnational Information and Consultation of Employees Regulations 1999 SI 1999/3323, which give effect to a European Union Directive requiring the creation of European Works Councils in 'undertakings' with significant operations in at least two European Economic Area countries. (See 7.502 Which undertakings are covered?)
• The purpose of the Directive is to establish mechanisms for informing and consulting employees at a European level; a separate Directive deals with the establishment of mechanisms for informing and consulting employees at national level.