on the future of the right to request time off to train
As part of a review of all regulations, in a bid to
reduce burdens on business, the Government are consulting on whether the
statutory right to request time off to train measures, introduced in April 2010
to businesses with 250 or more employees, should be repealed, retained, extended
or modified.
Employees in businesses with more than 250
employees have had the legal right to request time off to train or study since
April 6 2010. This statutory right is due to be introduced for smaller businesses
in April 2011.
As part of the Coalition Government’s review of all
regulations, in a bid to reduce burdens on business, a consultation exercise
has commenced to determine whether the statutory right should be revoked in its
entirety, modified or extended to employees of smaller organisations as
planned. Consultation closes on September 15.
The Government are keen to know whether the
measures are actually promoting and improving training opportunities for
employees. The British Chamber of Commerce want the regulations to be scrapped
arguing that the obligations they impose on smaller businesses in particular
are inappropriate and costly. The TUC argue that reducing training support for
staff will send out a powerful message that the UK Government do not consider
skills a priority.
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.