Benchmark: a CIPD temperature check on the world of work: Summer 2012

Our Benchmark series takes a semi-annual, retrospective look at recent government employment policy and legislation in three sections: A look at the labour market, Better pathways into work, and Higher performance at work. It gives the CIPD viewpoint as provided by our team of expert policy advisers.

In this edition:

• ‘A look at the labour market’ considers the prospects of the UK labour market and economy in 2012.

• In ‘Better pathways into work’, we consider the growing problem of youth unemployment and recent measures taken by the Government to address it, such as apprenticeships and work experience placements. We also consider what recent developments in immigration policy mean for employers looking to attract top talent to their organisations.

• ‘Higher performance at work’ looks at the issue of executive pay and recent government attempts to address this, amid rising political and public concern. We also explore how organisations of all shapes and sizes implement and value flexible working practices.

• A look at a recent report by venture capitalist Adrian Beecroft which advocated mass deregulation of the labour market and the cutting of a number of employment rights. The Government has consulted on a number of measures designed to decrease the burden of regulation on employers. We take a look specifically at new proposals for employment tribunal reform and changing dismissal laws for micro-businesses, considering the impact these may have on workplace relations and productivity.