UK Government Proposes Compressed Four-Day Work Week

The UK Labour government has confirmed it is exploring the possibility of introducing a compressed four-day work week option for British workers. This proposal, initially reported by the Daily Telegraph, would allow employees to maintain their current 40-hour work week but distribute those hours over four days instead of five, when circumstances permit.

Jobs Secretary Jacqui Smith elaborated on the proposal in an interview with LBC radio, stating, "We think flexible working hours are good for productivity. Perhaps instead of working eight hours a day for five days you could work ten hours a day for four. It would be the same amount of work, but in a way that allows you to spend less on childcare or more time with your family."

Key points of the proposal include:

1. Employees could request a compressed work week from their employers
2. The total number of work hours would remain unchanged at 40 hours per week
3. The option would not be mandatory for companies to implement
4. Certain professions, such as teaching, may be excluded due to scheduling constraints

This initiative is part of the Labour Party's broader "Make Work Pay Plan," a more moderated version of their original "New Deal for Working People" campaign promise. The government has committed to introducing this legislation within the first 100 days of its mandate, which began on July 5th.

Other proposed labour reforms in the plan include:

• Ending the abuse of work contracts to avoid paying benefits
• Introducing a "right to disconnect" outside of working hours
• Ensuring sick pay for all workers
• Increasing protection against unfair dismissal

The UK's proposal follows similar experiments in other countries. A recent pilot program in the UK saw 58 out of 61 participating companies extend the four-day work week, with 18 making it permanent. Similar trials in Iceland, Portugal, and Belgium have also shown positive results, particularly in terms of employee well-being and productivity.

However, the government spokesperson emphasized that the compressed work week would not be forced upon companies, stating, "We have no intention of forcing anyone to comply with the compressed work week. Any attempt to improve employment legislation will also be consulted with employers."

As the Starmer government moves forward with its labour reform agenda, the proposed compressed four-day work week represents a significant shift in UK employment practices. Its implementation and effects will be closely watched by both employers and employees, potentially setting a precedent for future workplace flexibility initiatives in the country and beyond.