According to reports in today’s national newspapers, Prime Minister David Cameron and Business Secretary Vince Cable are due to announce fundamental reforms to the employment tribunal system today.

Whilst the details remain unclear, the press reports assert that the following reforms will be proposed:-

• the payment of a fee to lodge a claim – suggestions include either £500, or one week's pay;
• compulsory mediation for all tribunal claims;
• an increase in the unfair dismissal qualifying period from one year to two years of continuous employment; and
• employment judges to sit alone to hear all cases.

Mention is also made of the introduction of an Employer's Charter. This will remind employers of their 'rights', such as the right to ask an employee to take annual leave at a time that suits the business, the right to ask staff to take a pay cut and the right to dismiss poorly performing staff.

The introduction of any such changes will be subject to consultation.

For further information contact Carl Vincent.