§ Baroness Gould of Potternewtonasked Her Majesty's Government:
What action they are taking or planning to take to combat the growth of bullying in the workplace. [HL2272]
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Trade and Industry (Lord Sainsbury of Turville)Bullying and harassment have no place in today's work environment and are unacceptable whenever they occur. The Government strongly condemn such behaviour and believe employees should be able to work without fear of encountering bullying from their employers or anyone else.
188WAThe adoption of best employment relations practice should help to create a culture where bullying becomes unacceptable. The Government have established the Partnership Fund which encourages participative and open cultures within organisations. There are a number of projects which are specifically focusing on the issue of bullying and more that include it as part of their overall culture change.
Moreover, we are working closely with the Health and Safety Executive on the development of management standards. The first step is to undertake research to establish the real extent of the problem and how it manifests itself in the workplace.
There are a number of legal measures employees can turn to if the situation requires it. ACAS has produced a code of practice on disciplinary and grievance procedures developed in September 2000 which has a section relating to bullying. The code also offers advice to employees and employers in this and many areas of employment relations. The code can be taken into account in an employment tribunal and therefore carries weight.