Government sets up flexible working taskforce

The government has set up a Work and Parent Taskforce to look into giving working parents the right to ask to work flexibly.

Although welcomed by the TUC and Equal Opportunities Commission, T&G general union general secretary Bill Morris told the BBC that he was "amazed that here we are - in the 21st century, after years of sacrifices - and the government are promoting a right to ask as a major breakthrough."

The Taskforce will advise on how to put in place measures which allow parents with young children to work flexible hours and have their requests considered seriously.

TUC general secretary John Monks said: "The real test of the proposals will come when they are put into practice. The new measures must not only provide theoretical options, but practical procedures that can be used to make a real difference".

The taskforce is expected to report back to the government in November.