UK delays the implementation of the Agency workers Directive
Date: October 20, 2009
The Agency Works Directive (AWD) was agreed in 20 May 2008 between the UK’s largest business organisations, (CIB) and the Trade Union Centre (TUC), with the aim to guarantee temporary agency workers, freelancers and contractors with equal employment rights as full-time employees.
The announcement by the Government Business department 15th October of the decision to delay the implementation of the AWD to October 2011 has been welcomed by businesses such as the EFF, the CBI and the Chartered Institute of Personnel & Development who have expressed concerns about the possible damage that AWD implementation would cause to businesses if become enforceable during the current economic depression.
The decision to delay the AWD implementation for a further 12 months is intended to help businesses keep costs as low as possible when expanding their temporary workforce, bolster employment figures and help the economy grow by providing contractors and freelancers with the same employment opportunities previously enjoyed. The UK business minister Pat McFadden has said “The law will come into force in the UK in October 2011, giving recruiters and their clients time to prepare and plan” and added “We are also mindful of the need to avoid changing requirements on business until the economic recovery is more firmly established.” David Frost, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce, has expressed his agreement with the decision and affirms “the government is sending a positive message to business”.
Unions, who wanted the AWD to be implemented as soon as possible are of course frustrated and disappointed and the general secretary of TUC, Brendan Barber said that agency workers needed AWD protection more than ever as they are the most vulnerable workers during recession. If you are a freelancer, temporary worker or independent contractor check your options with umbrella company OrangeGenie that guarantee you excellent employment rights and benefits for contractors.
