The FSB argues that the Government are contradicting themselves with their new proposals
The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has expressed concern that the Government’s plans to slash red tape may be undermined by its newer plans to reform parental leave and flexible working.
The new proposition, entitled ‘Modern Workplaces’, introduces a system of flexible parental leave. If successful, the changes would begin to occur in 2015. The plans will allow fathers more paid leave and after the first few weeks, will allow parents to take leave in blocks, either at separate times or together. The right to request flexible working will also be extended to all employees, not just new parents.
Recently, the Government announced plans to cut red tape for businesses, especially SMEs.
However, the FSB have released a new report entitled ‘The Burden of Regulation’, expressing concern that the newly-proposed changes to parental leave and flexible working will undermine the red tape
cuts.
Although the FSB has been calling for a reform to parental law for a while, it argues that allowing both parents to take time off in chunks instead of all at once would make administration more complex.
John Walker, national chairman of the FSB, said: "Freeing businesses from the shackles of regulation is meant to be a key Government commitment. Yet only days after announcing the welcomed employment law review, a raft of new employment burdens were announced. It is precisely these types of regulations that will hinder, rather than help, small firms.
"For the Government's commitment to cut regulation to have a meaningful impact, it is vital the Government shows it is listening. Proposing changes to parental leave and flexible working at such a difficult time will not encourage small business owners to grow and take on more staff."