Mandelson rejects EU plan for employee consultation

Article Abstract:

As the Deputy Prime Minister, John Prescott seeks to reassure the Trades Union Congress (TUC) leaders at the start of the TUC conference on 14 September 1998 that the government's economic policy is on track, Peter Mandelson, the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry will further upset the TUC by his announcement that the government will not support measures concerning workers' rights in the European Union's (EU) social chapter. Although the government has accepted the Social Chapter as a means of protecting employees, it supports the stance of the Confederation Of British Industry (CBI) that the directive compelling all companies employing more than 20 people to consult with the workforce over major employment decisions would be damaging to UK companies. Mr Mandelson believes that this particular issue is one to be tackled by national governments rather than by the EU itself. However, the legislation might still come into effect as the UK on its own does not have the authority to veto the proposals.

Comment:

UK: Government will not support measures concerning workers' rights in the European Union's social chapter

United Kingdom

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Children as young as five suffer in picking fruit for oragnge juice

Article Abstract:

Although the Brazilian government has taken action against the problem of child labour, welfare groups and unions in Brazil claim that 150,000 children as young as five are working up to 12 hours a day picking oranges. In response, the Brussels-based International Confederation of Free Trade Unions has launched an investigation into forced labour in Brazil, and if it finds enough evidence will pressurise the EU into withdrawing trade preferences from Brazil. UK supermarkets Sainsbury and Tesco have indicated they will take action against any suppliers found to be employing child labour. Importers have insisted that their suppliers do not employ child labour and deal only with companies which have a code of conduct on child labour. However, the Trades Union organisation for Brazil claims that it is extremely difficult for officials to check whether children are working or not.

Comment:

Brazil: Brussels-based Intnl Confederation of Free Trade Unions launches investigation into forced labor in country

Brazil

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We can work it out

Article Abstract:

The Working Time Directive will come into effect in the UK on Oct 1, 1998. This legislation sets down a maximum 48-hour working week, with the employer being responsible for ensuring that this time limit is not exceeded. Most workers will be entitled to at least three weeks' paid holiday, and they must also receive a minimum of 11 hours' rest each day and one day off each week. The legislation covers both employees working under contracts of employment and those working under other forms of contract.

Laws, regulations and rules, Work hours

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