HC Deb 17 December 2003 vol 415 cc934-5W
Michael Fabricant

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what discussions she has had with the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service on the working time directive's opt-out clause; and if she will make a statement. [143829]

Mr. Sutcliffe

The Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS) is the first point of contact for all public enquiries relating to employment law. The Department and ACAS are, therefore, in constant contact on all aspects of employment law.

The European Commission are reviewing the opt out arrangements and intend to issue a preliminary Communication, without formal legislative proposals, shortly. We hope that the Communication will present a range of options on the opt out which can be discussed with UK social partners.