New rights for part-time workers

Women make up 80% of Britain's six million part-time workers. Though the majority are treated as favourably as full-timers, the new legislation aims to end unjustifiable discrimination for all six million where it persists.

Stephen Byers, Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, said on Friday:

"Where discrimination remains it must be ended. On Saturday we reach an important milestone for employment rights when over 400,000 part-timers should see an improvement in their conditions...

"Businesses need to draw on the greatest pool of talent possible. Our measures will enhance competitiveness by encouraging more skilled people back into the labour market."

Under the new rules, part-timers will be entitled to:

• the same hourly rate of pay,
• the same access to company pension schemes,
• the same entitlements to annual leave and maternity/parental leave on a pro rata basis,
• the same entitlement to contractual sick pay, and
• no less favourable treatment in access to training.