Proposals for revised strike ballots code

The government is looking to change the current code of practice on industrial action ballots to reflect changes in the law and to make the code easier to follow. The changes take account of:

* new protection from unfair dismissal during at least the first eight weeks of industrial action;

* unions will not be required to give employers lists of members they intend to ballot; and

* overtime bans come within the definition of action short of a strike and are therefore subject to a separate ballot question where the union is also seeking views on strike action.

The consultation period ends on 5 June 2000. The consultation document is on the DTI website at www.dti.gov.uk/er/consultz.htm