Issue - meetings

To consider a report of the Director of Human Resources, Organisational Development and Communications & Engagement, providing an update on the National Pay Award and an update on potential employment related legislative changes.

The Employment in Hampshire County Council (EHCC) Committee considered a report of the Director of Human Resources, Organisational Development and Communications & Engagement, providing an update on the National Pay Award and an update on potential employment related legislative changes.

Regarding the pay award, it was noted that the three unions had voted to reject the final pay offer and were consulting their members on strike action. The Chairman highlighted that if the County Council wanted to take action locally to help lower paid staff it would mean coming out of the national pay negotiations and that would have significant implications.

Members asked questions and commented on the issues covered in the report including the new duty to prevent sexual harassment, ill health in the workplace, a consultation on flexible working and carer’s leave.

RESOLVED:

1.    That EHCC note the current position of the national pay negotiations and agree the application of the same national pay award to EHCC Grades H and above (as applied to Grades A – G), on the presumption that it is no more than 1.75%. Consultation with recognised Trade Unions will be undertaken regarding the implementation of this decision. It is not expected that the final settlement will be higher than this but if it is higher a decision will be brought back to EHCC.

2.    That EHCC note the final position on the Home Working Allowance following consultation.

3.    That EHCC note the updates on government consultations and potential employment legislation changes

The Chairman adjourned the meeting at 10:50am to enable members and officers to take part in a remembrance service. The meeting re-started at 11:10am.