In this video, Wills and Tax Specialist Lee Young looks at the different types of LPAs, whether you need one and what to include.
A group of MPs has warned the government they need to crack down on sexist dress codes which are still widespread in UK workplaces. Two House of Commons committees have called for a review of current equality legislation after gathering evidence of sexist instructions issued to a raft of female employees, but not to their male colleagues.
Their report began after the treatment of Nicola Thorp, who went to work as a receptionist in flat shoes in 2015 and was sent home without pay after refusing to buy a pair with at least a two inch heel. This was despite pointing out that men were not required to comply with similar restrictions.
In its findings, the report noted the Equality Act 2010 should ban discriminatory dress rules at work to protect employees from discrimination and unsafe working conditions. The committees, however, found examples of unlawful dress rules such as hearing orders for women to re-apply makeup regularly, wear revealing clothes, or dye their hair blonde. This shows the the law is obviously not working.
MPs want this area of the law to be reviewed and to ask Parliament to change it to make it more effective (if necessary). They also say employment tribunals should be given the power to apply heavier financial penalties.
Comment
The MPs’ report also recommends a publicity campaign be launched to ensure employers know their legal obligations and for workers to know how to complain. Our view is that the Equality Act does have the legislation to deal with this type of discrimination, it is just not being used properly. For example, the imposition of a certain dress code can be indirect discrimination, as it is a provision, criteria or practice that can put women at a disadvantage. If more women brought cases to the tribunal then attitudes might change.
At Frettens, all of our solicitors offer a free initial meeting or chat on the phone to answer your questions. If this article raises issues for you or your business, please call us on 01202 499255 and Paul, Kate or Andrew will be happy to discuss it with you.
