A recent speech Work and Pensions Secretary Yvette Cooper has indicated that the flexible working regulations could be extended to those applying for posts that are advertised as full time. She is keen to improve the number of part time posts on offer as demand outstrips availability. Candidates would be able to ask an employer to consider how a post could be altered to accommodate family and caring commitments. Whilst employers could refuse the request, they would as with the current statutory right have to give a business reason for the refusal.
She also plans to require posts advertised in job centres to be offered on a part time basis too and for a national database of part time posts to be created. However it seems another turf war may be brewing as Lord Mandelson, the Business Secretary, says his department has no plans to change the law on flexible working!
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