§ Mr. Martyn JonesTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what changes she has introduced to the conditions governing part-time workers in the United Kingdom since May; and if she will make a statement. [18409]
§ Mr. Ian McCartneyThe Government have accepted the Social Chapter which will mean that part time and full time workers in the UK will be able to benefit from its measures. We have undertaken to implement the Part Time Work Directive once it has been agreed by the other member states. This will prohibit less favourable treatment of part-timers and promote part-time job opportunities. It will thus contribute to the flexible organisation of work while at the same time ensuring that part-timers receive the same contractual and statutory benefits as full-timers.