Consultation rights are extended

From 6 April, the Information and Consultation of Employees Regulations 2004 are being extended to cover employers with 50 or more employees.

The regulations, which came into force in April 2005, give employees the right to request that their employer informs and consults them about matters that affect their employment.

If at least 10% of the workforce exercises this right, the employer must set up a regular system for information and consultation. The maximum penalty for employers who do not comply is £75,000.