With the general election results now declared, it is worthwhile looking back at the Conservative Party's manifesto pledges to consider the possible impact on HR professionals in the hotel and leisure sector.
1. ZERO HOURS CONTRACTS
A key pledge was that exclusivity clauses (being provisions which restrict the individual from also being engaged by any other employer) would be banned. We expect that legislation will be passed to effectively make such clauses unenforceable. If this change is implemented, you should review your contractual terms for anyone engaged on a zero hours contract.
2. MINIMUM WAGE
It is expected that national minimum wage will increase to £6.70 by Autumn 2015 (currently it is £6.50 for those aged 21 or over). Thereafter, it is possible that by 2020, the national minimum wage will have increased to over £8 per hour. There will also be encouragement for businesses to pay at least the "living wage", which is calculated by reference to the cost of living in the UK. Currently this is £9.15 for London and £7.85 elsewhere in the UK.
3. ILLEGAL WORKING
Tougher labour market regulation was pledged to crackdown on
illegal migrant working. It is not clear exactly how this will take
place but you would be wise to ensure you have checked that all
your employees have the right to work in the UK. There can be civil
and potentially criminal repercussions if you have not carried out
the appropriate checks.
The Queen's Speech is expected to contain details on the above and many more employment changes, so look out for further developments when this is delivered on 27 May.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.