Move to end working hours opt-out mistake, says FDF
The MEPs voted by 421 to 273 to end the exemption option to the WTD, which could mean that workers in the UK will no longer be able to voluntarily choose to work over 48 hours after 2011.
In 1993, the UK won a general opt-out clause allowing it not to apply the maximum 48-hour working week if a worker agrees to work. In other Member States the opt-out applied only in some sectors.
Currently, more than three million British workers work more than 48 hours a week, according to UK government statistics.
"We feel it is a mistake to end the opt-out during an economic downturn when people might need to work extra hours to earn extra money if other family members are unemployed," claims Angela Coleshill, HR director at the Food and Drink Federation (FDF).
She told FoodProductionDaily.com that the FDF will want to consult on next steps and consider implications for the future in regard to the potential curbs on working hours.
According to Coleshill, the WTD exemption is key to Britain’s labour market flexibility.
She argues that food industry workers in the UK regard as an advantage the ability to earn more either at a flat or enhanced rate during periods of high intensity work on specific projects or when meeting seasonal demands.
“The food and drink manufacturing sector’s production by its very nature is subject to considerable seasonal fluctuations in demand. It is therefore vital that FDF’s members are able to respond flexibly to customer demand in busy periods.
“The use of the opt out in these circumstances enables businesses in our sector to remain competitive, ensuring the sustainability of our economic and social contribution,” said Coleshill.
She conceded, however, that the three year timescale involved would enable FDF members to have adequate time to review their working practices and put in place the changes necessary to enable them to continue to respond flexibly to an increasingly competitive marketplace.
The vote will now go to conciliation for a period of eight weeks so that the European Council and the European Parliament can attempt to reach agreement on the future of the exemption rule.
A final decision is expected in early 2009.
