Is the introduction of a standard minimum wage always bad for business? Studies can argue either way, but the long term social and cultural impact of a minimum hourly rate can be seen in nearly all developed countries. The teething pains can be acute, however, especially in the service sector. On a global level, the right … Continue reading
In the run-up to the UK General Election, last month I wrote a feature for Real Business which is reproduced below. Following last week’s first TV ‘debate’ which saw both David Cameron and Ed Miliband declare they could not work under zero hours contracts, it is likley that both parties manifestos will address this thorny … Continue reading
I appeared on BBC Radio5Live (at 1:51:37) on 8 September 2014 to discuss reports that workers unions are mobilising and preparing for an attack on British employers in the coming months. This activity follows the European Court of Justice’s May decision in Lock v British Gas which determined that the interpretation of ‘normal remuneration’ under domestic law … Continue reading
Fuel poverty has been in the news recently, with both the Labour and Conservative parties speaking out against rising prices. In 2011, there were estimated to be 4.5 million fuel poor households in the UK, representing 17% of the population, and this figure is expected to have risen since then. Fuel poverty is a … Continue reading
Approximately two million adults in the UK have taken out a pay day loan in the past year and demand continues to rocket, providing lenders with headline making profits. The amount of money being borrowed by cash-strapped workers is reported to have tripled over the last 18 months to an average of £660. Pay day loans aren’t illegal. … Continue reading
Kevin Poulter 