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Flexible working initiative 'welcomed by SMEs'

Published On 2 April 2007 at 09:26:01

Trade organisations that represent the interests of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have cautiously welcomed Tony Blair's initiative on flexible working practices.

Late last week, the prime minister outlined a vision for more flexible working practices in the UK's workplace. At a conference in Manchester, Mr Blair said that flexible practices would bring benefits to both workers and employers and build the country's "knowledge economy".

In his speech, Mr Blair said that the government should balance improving worker education and skills with protecting their rights in the workplace.

The British Chamber of Commerce said that they welcomed the initiative.

"The prime minister has outlined a positive vision for Britain's economy," said David Frost, the organisation's director general.

"As business squares up to the global competitive challenge posed by the emerging economies of India and China the ability to respond quickly to change is vital."

Mr Frost said that there were two sides to the issue of workplace flexibility for SMEs, explaining: "One is ensuring that regulatory conditions are such that they allow employers to be lean and agile and the other is for employees to manage their work in a manner that suits their circumstances."

 

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