The
Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has published the first annual statement
on changes to domestic employment law, including the introduction of common
commencement dates.
The
statement is the first step in adopting common start dates for changes to
employment law in a bid to help businesses implement legislation.
From
2004, domestic employment laws will only be introduced on two days each year –
6 April and 1 October.
Gerry
Sutcliffe, Employment Relations Minister said the plan would make it easier for
employers to respond to legislation changes.
"The
annual statement and harmonisation of commencement dates for changes in
employment law and practice are a direct response by the DTI to meet concerns
of employers and workers as identified by the Better Regulation
Taskforce," he said.
"It
is particularly good news for small businesses that don’t have the resources to
monitor employment law changes."
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The
two dates will not necessarily apply to European legislation, although the DTI
is seeking to align them with the scheme.
