The British labor movement is pushing for a promised review of the 1999 Employment Relations Act, which it claims is inadequate and overly complex. Among the disputed issues are union recognition thresholds, maximum penalties for business unfair labor practices, exemptions for small businesses, and regulations applying to industrial actions. Although businesses leaders' opposition to the TUC's proposed changes will probably be intense, Blair may use these demands as an opportunity to appease a labor movement displeased with some of his recent plans.
See "Unions call for reform of workers' rights", CHRISTOPHER ADAMS, Financial Times, September 23, 2001