New code of practice is issued

Acas has issued a new Code of practice on disciplinary and grievance for consultation.

The revised code is to come into effect when the statutory dispute resolution procedures are removed by the Employment Bill 2007, which is expected to happen in April 2009.

The new shorter code sets out the principles of disciplinary and grievance procedures and gives basic practical guidance.

Under the new law, a tribunal will be able to alter compensation if the new code has not been followed.

The Code of practice is available on the Acas website at www.acas.org.uk.