We'll fight working time reforms "tooth and nail" says CBI

Britain's business community will fight "tooth and nail" against proposed EU restrictions on working hours, says the CBI.

John Cridland, CBI Deputy Director-General, said: "This is an attempt to broker a compromise that has completely backfired. The proposals show a clear misunderstanding of the UK's industrial relations culture, which serves this country well.

"It is good that the Commission is allowing the opt-out to remain, but it is quite wrong to give trade unions a veto over what should be an individual decision. The proposals would undermine the individual's right to choose the hours they work.

" The new requirement to maintain records of hours even when an individual has chosen to opt out would trigger a mass of unnecessary form-filling for employers and employees. It is administrative minefield that could land companies in court if they get it wrong.

"This sends a terrible signal to all those who still hope the EU might deliver on long-promised economic reforms."

On annual renewal and probationary periods, Mr Cridland said: "Having annual agreement together with collective agreement is wholly unacceptable. Unions would be able to use the opt out as a bargaining chip, allowing them to hold management over a barrel every 12 months."