Criticisms mount over strike law reforms


A growing number of organisations outside the trade union movement have voiced strong concerns about the government’s proposed Trade Union Bill (see also pages 4, 7 and 25).


The Regulatory Policy Committee (RPC), an independent organisation appointed by the government, has criticised many aspects of the Bill. 


For example, in relation to the extended notice period of two weeks to be given to employers before strike action, the RPC commented that there was “little evidence presented that there would be any significant benefits”. 


And the RPC questioned the strength of the government’s arguments for new ballot thresholds and permitting the use of agency workers to replace striking workers.


It also criticised management of the reform process, describing the government’s impact assessments on the reforms as “not fit for purpose” and recommending further consultation. 


The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) also opposes many aspects of the Bill. Peter Cheese, CIPD chief executive officer, said the proposals were “targeting yesterday’s problem” and said consultation, dialogue and engagement would be a better approach. 


And the British Universities Industrial Relations Association, the professional body of employment relations academics, suggested that the government is mistaken in attacking trade unions and that it should instead focus on worker engagement.

http://strongerunions.org/2015/08/28/what-an-expert-government-body-says-about-the-trade-union-bill

www.cipd.co.uk/pm/peoplemanagement/b/weblog/archive/2015/09/09/trade-union-reforms-are-outdated-response-warns-cipd.aspx

http://lubswww.leeds.ac.uk/ceric/news/news-item/articles/2015/August/buira-press-release-110815/