Extra funding to help early resolution of workplace disputes

New measures aimed at simplifying the resolution of workplace disputes are to be unveiled by the Government as part of a review of UK employment law.

Employment Relations Minister, Pat McFadden, is expected to announce a £37 million cash boost for employment body Acas, in a bid to improve its advisory services and enable more disputes to be resolved at an early stage.

By preventing the unnecessary referral of workplace disputes to a tribunal, the Government estimates that businesses and employees will save more than £175m every year.

Commenting on the proposed revisions, Macfadden said: ‘We want to move from the current overly rigid and legalistic process to one where there is more conciliation between employers and employees.

‘This new system will strike a balance between ensuring workers can protect their rights through employment tribunals while helping them to resolve disputes as early as possible.’

Meanwhile Ed Sweeney, chair of Acas, has welcomed the Government’s proposed revisions. ‘This new investment will enable us to increase our effectiveness and spread the benefits of good employment relations more widely,’ he said.

‘I am delighted by this news and BERR’s recognition of the unique and valuable role that we play.’