Ford agrees code of conduct with European works council

Ford has agreed a code of conduct for its European operations with its European works council.

The multinational motor manufacturer signed the agreement with the European works council, which brings together employee representatives from the European countries where Ford has operations, on 19 December.

The code of conduct commits the company to effective consultation with the employee representatives and trade unions in Europe, whenever major changes are planned, and it specifically refers to the right of employees to conduct collective bargaining. The company also undertakes that there will be no tolerance of unfair discrimination or harassment and it promises that it will develop an effective training strategy for its staff.

The code of conduct also contains sections on health and safety and environmental protection.

The chair of the European works council, Dieter Hinkelmann, describes the agreement as "the result of successful co-operation between the members" of the European works council. The European Metalworkers' Federation is also positive and has particularly welcomed the clear role given to trade unions.