British bosses to be forced to meet with employees who request flexible working

Under a new set of workers' rights, British company bosses will be required to meet with employees who request flexible working arrangements. This change was announced by Louise Haigh, the first secretary of state, at the TUC conference in Brighton. Haigh emphasized the importance of considering employees' requests for flexibility, citing real-life situations where it can make a significant difference, such as children's school pick-ups and parental responsibilities.

However, Haigh also acknowledged that not every request can be accommodated and that there are limits to what can be done, especially when it comes to working from home or fulfilling job duties. Under the current rules, employees have a legal right to request flexible working, which employers must consider in a "reasonable manner." The new regulations will require employers to meet with the employee requesting the change, properly evaluate the request, and provide a clear explanation for their decision.

Haigh praised unions for their efforts in campaigning for the Employment Rights Act, which has significantly enhanced workers' rights in recent years, including improvements in sick pay, parental leave, and zero-hours contracts. She commended unions for their role in transforming lives today and securing a better future for generations to come.

In her speech, Haigh highlighted the importance of unions as the backbone of the movement and expressed her pride in standing alongside them in advocating for workers' rights, citing examples like standing up for workers unlawfully dismissed by P&O Ferries and improving public procurement to create more job opportunities in Britain.