§ Mr. ReedTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what action his Department is taking to(a) tackle and (b) raise awareness of the incidence of workplace bullying. [149992]
§ Mr. Alan JohnsonBullying has no place in today's work environment and is unacceptable wherever it occurs.
Legislation exists to protect workers from the most serious kinds of bullying, for instance under the Health and Safety at Work, etc. Act 1974. Laws also cover harassment and discrimination on the grounds of sex, race and disability.
Non-legislative methods currently available include the adoption of best practice and the dissemination of guidance to employers, employees and their representatives i.e. the ACAS 'Code of Practice on Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures'.
81WThe Government's partnership strategy is based on co-operation and good communication between employers and employees, which should result in a more constructive relationship in the workplace.
The DTI's partnership at work fund provides £5 million over a four-year period to help projects develop better employment practices within the workplace. The third round will see bullying as one of its areas of particular interest.