This view is confirmed by a survey of EEF's larger members that was undertaken in 2005 and more recent anecdotal information from EEF members and regional Associations.
These showed no evidence that any real concerns are being expressed by employee representatives about their time off arrangements and facilites. EEF therefore considers that the issues raised in the DTI consultation document are 'examples of solutions looking for problems that do not really exist'.
In our response, we also:-
- Supported the Acas Code of Practice on "Time Off for Trade Union Duties and Responsibilities" being reviewed by Acas although we stressed that this must not be used by the Government as a way of imposing new obligations on employers through the back door.
- Expressed concern about the prescriptive nature of the Government's suggested changes to this Code of Practice which could potentially challenge the independent role of Acas.
- Argued that the range of Government guidance material on the rights of employee representatives should be rationalised and made easier for users to access.
EEF's response to this DTI consultation document can be downloaded in full from this page.