This
week’s news in brief
CRE
opposes merger
The
Commission for Racial Equality (CRE) has voted to oppose government plans to
merge it with other anti-discrimination bodies into a single equality body. The
body would have an annual budget of £50m and be a ‘one-stop shop’ for anyone
facing any kind of discrimination. However, the CRE’s 13 commissioners voted
11-2 for the “unequivocal rejection” of the measure. www.personneltoday.com/goto/24786
Cuts
to Armed Forces
Defence
secretary Geoff Hoon has announced large cuts in the Armed Forces as part of
modernisation plans. By 2008, the RAF will shed 7,500 jobs, 1,500 will be lost
in the Navy, and a further 10,000 civilian posts will also be cut. Aircraft,
tank and ship numbers will also be reduced.
www.personneltoday.com/goto/24781
Pensions
Regulator CEO
The
first chief executive designate of the new Pensions Regulator has been
confirmed as Tony Hobman, currently CEO of the Occupational Pensions Regulatory
Authority. The £400m Pension Protection Fund, which he will oversee, is
designed to protect members of private sector defined benefit schemes whose
firms become insolvent with insufficient funds in their schemes. www.personneltoday.com/goto/24748
Online
and in-depth
It’s
Good To Talk – How to involve the unions in information and consultation
initiatives
Brits
Abroad – What actions employers can bring if they see employees adopting
anti-social behaviour out of work hours
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