PRESS RELEASE 6 August 1998

New legislation increases demand for advice

The Low Pay Unit is extending its free telephone advice service into late evenings* to meet the growing demand for advice following the announcement of new employment rights. The advisers have been busy reassuring low paid workers of their rights where employers threaten a reduction in pay and benefits or even dismissal as a result of forthcoming legislation.

Under the raft of new legislation:

• two million low paid workers (aged 22 and over) in the UK will have the right to be paid at least £3.60 an hour from April 1999
• all employees will have a right to at least three weeks paid leave from October 1998
• workers will have the right to refuse to work more than 48 hours a week
• there will better protection for working children, including daily rest breaks and a limit on weekly working hours

While many employers are already providing decent pay and benefits, many are not aware of their obligations under current legislation. The advice line also helps employers by promoting good employment practice.

Sarah Roche, the Unit's Employment Rights Adviser, commented today:
"At a time when new legislation is being introduced on pay and fair employment rights, it is vital that low paid workers and their employers are fully aware of their rights and obligations. This extended evening line will enable many individuals who are busy or unable to call us during the day to have access to our expert advice. We want to ensure that the new legislation works effectively for the benefit of all."

* The Unit's telephone advice service will now be available on Monday evenings from 6.00pm to 8.00pm on the main line number: 0171 713 7616

The ERAS advice line (0171 713 7583) is open Monday to Friday between 2.00pm -5.00pm to answer your enquiries.

Further information call:
Sarah Roche, Employment Rights Officer, on 0171 713 7616
Bharti Patel, Director, on 0171 713 7616 (office ) 0973 738 462 (mobile)

Notes to Editors:

The Employment Rights Advice Service forms an essential part of the work of the Low Pay Unit. Its remit includes:

1. informing and advising low paid workers and their advisers on pay, employment rights and benefit entitlement;
2. producing a wide range of advice and information leaflets on employment rights including the right to a written statement of terms and conditions of employment, deductions from wages and the right to claim unfair dismissal.
3. a consultation service to employers seeking to implement good employment practices in their workplace.