The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) described as a disaster an announcement that, under the forthcoming EU Agency Workers Directive, temporary (or ‘agency’) workers are to be extended similar employment rights to fulltime workers after 12 weeks.

Temporary workers are a useful way of responding to fluctuations in demand. If that flexibility is lost, many small businesses may stop using temporary employees.

It’s easy to see why organisations like the FSB, Chambers of Commerce and the Forum of Private Business are concerned about this announcement. We do not yet know precisely what the legislation will entail and it still has to be agreed with other European governments. However at first sight the 12-week limit means that a high proportion of short-term temporary assignments will be unaffected.

Our employment law experts can help you consider what this new legislation will mean for your business so that you can be prepared. Call Adam Marshall on 01491 572138 for further advice.