Smarter working 'can cut hours'

Working hours have prompted fierce debate

Long hours could be a thing of the past if UK companies modernised working practices, the government has said.

A report produced by the Department of Trade and Industry is being backed by both trade union organisation the TUC and business group the CBI.

It highlights major companies that have already introduced measures such as job sharing and flexi-time to improve shift patterns and productivity.

But the report says it is crucial that staff are involved in consultation.

Employment Minister Gerry Sutcliffe will tell a conference in London that while regulation has a part to play, a change in the UK's long working hours culture is also needed.

"Creating a culture where we work smarter rather than longer is key to improving worker satisfaction, as well as improving competitiveness, productivity and retaining skilled workers," he said.

EU directive

The report looks at companies' efforts to "modernise" working practices.

Maximising company performance by modernising working patterns is a key issue for UK firms John Cridland, CBI

BT, Accenture, PricewaterhouseCoopers and Eversheds had all seen enhanced customer service, better retention of skilled staff and improved morale, the DTI said.

The CBI said the report showed absenteeism could be cut.

Deputy director-general John Cridland said: "Maximising company performance by modernising working patterns is a key issue for UK firms."

TUC general secretary Brendan Barber said: "Unions do believe in proper regulation - but this initiative shows workplaces can do even better when managers and employees work together."

But the TUC also urged the government to back the EU directive limiting the working week to 48 hours.

Ministers want to maintain the opt-out, believing a flexible workforce is more competitive.