Reform to trade union facility time and facilities in the civil service
Consultation about paid time off during working hours for trade union representatives and members for trade union duties.
Facility time is paid time off during working hours for trade union representatives to carry out trade union duties and time off for representatives and members to undertake trade union activities.
The government recognises that unions can play a constructive role in a modern workplace contributing to the effective and efficient operation of public services.
Many union representatives give their own time in addition to any facility time, to support their colleagues both individually and collectively through the industrial relations machinery. Where this operates well it serves the interest both of the union members and the employer well.
We are seeking to find a balance between supporting constructive engagement with employee representatives for the good of public services and providing better value for the taxpayer.