Lord Mandelson's 'efforts' to cut red tape for firms will only serve to add to the feel-bad factor we're already experiencing as we spiral into recession. Business secretary Mandelson is making a huge faux pas if he decides to delay the flexitime reforms approved at the Labour Party conference last month.
HR professionals know only too well that the business case for flexible working is a well-proven argument, and many employers have, for some time, been granting requests to work flexibly and reaping the benefits of increased staff satisfaction as a result.
As Audrey Williams from Eversheds law firm points out, the extension of flexible working rights to all those with children up to the age of 16 only grants staff the 'right to request' flexible working and encourages conversation around it - it does not guarantee the right to have it.
Why risk demotivating employees further, by sending out a message that those conversations aren't important, at a time when businesses are expecting staff to go the extra mile and help them through tough times? Employers would still be able to refuse requests under the new law so what's the point of delaying it?
Illustrating the fast-moving challenges facing many firms during the downturn, a recent survey found that the key requirement in 65% of roles is for flexibility and openness to change. If employers adopt the same attitude by at least considering flexible working requests, they are more likely to retain people that will see them through the downturn.
And there's no doubt that delaying an extension of workplace rights will outrage trade unions and anger many female voters struggling to balance work and family commitments. Let's not wait to make a decision when there is already plenty of support from business.
The same applies to delays in abolishing the retirement age. Many HR directors support the abolition of the retirement age and have been backing our campaign. Why don't you do the same?
