Cable hints at tougher strike laws

Vince Cable has hinted that the Government is considering strengthening employment laws, specifically in relation to strikes. The Business Secretary admitted that legislation might be needed to protect the country’s economic interests in the face of trade union militancy during a speech to the GMB union. The Liberal Democrat Mr Cable has been seen as a block to any changes to the law, but he has faced growing anger from senior Conservatives, including Boris Johnson, the London mayor, who has been powerless to stop Tube strikes. He said: “I know that strike levels remain historically low, especially in the private sector. Assuming this pattern continues, the case for changing strike law is not compelling. However, should strikes impose serious damage to our economic and social fabric, the pressure on us to act would ratchet up.” Mr Cable also defended the Coalition’s plans to shake up employment law to try to help businesses. He added: “I am at the receiving end of a barrage of complaints from business – especially small business – saying that employment legislation is stopping them taking on more staff because of the hassle involved.” Union leaders have warned that June 30 could see the biggest outbreak of industrial unrest for years as three quarters of a million teachers, lecturers, civil servants and other public sector workers could take co-ordinated industrial action. Dr Cable said: “The usual suspects will call for general strikes and widespread disruption. This will excite the usual media comments about a summer or an autumn of discontent, and another group of the usual suspects will exploit the situation to call for the tightening of strike law. “We are undoubtedly entering a difficult period. Cool heads will be required all round. Despite occasional blips, I know that strike levels remain historically low, especially in the private sector. On that basis, and assuming this pattern continues, the case for changing strike law is not compelling.” Our Employment team provides advice on the employment aspects of all major business decisions. For advice, contact a member of the team: call us on 08456 381381 or email employment@ibblaw.co.uk.