Government opens consultation on collective redundancy rules

The Government has opened a consultation over the statutory rules on collective redundancies. The proposals include reducing the minimum period before the first dismissal can take effect where 100 or more employees are involved, and issuing a non-statutory code of practice that will address "a number of key issues affecting redundancy consultation". 

According to the consultation document, the information provided during the call for evidence suggests that the collective redundancy regime is "unsuitable for the current UK labour market"; that the law is "too restrictive"; and that government guidance is "not clear enough". 

To achieve a "more effective collective redundancy regime", the consultation includes proposals to:

  • reduce to either 30 or 45 days the 90-day minimum period before the first dismissal can take effect where 100 or more employees are involved;
  • issue a non-statutory code of practice that will address "a number of key issues affecting redundancy consultation", focusing in particular on "dealing effectively with the most contentious issues"; and
  • improve guidance for employers and employees on the support available from the Government. 

The consultation, which closes on 19 September 2012, is aimed primarily at employers, employees and employee representatives. It forms part of the Government's ongoing series of reforms to various areas of UK employment law. 

Also

Government announces "the most radical reform to the employment law system for decades" XpertHR summarises the Government's response to the consultation on resolving workplace disputes. 

Employment tribunal system to be reformed The XpertHR forthcoming law section looks at the Government's proposals for reforms to the employment tribunal system, including protected conversations. 

Line manager briefing on collective redundancies This XpertHR line manager briefing looks at the law and best practice where the employer is proposing to dismiss 20 or more employees within 90 days or less.