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Small businesses ignore employment laws

Feb 22 2010

SMEs are not fully adhering to employment laws, with two-thirds failing to implement legislation, according to a survey from Business Link.

Of the 314 businesses surveyed, 33 per cent say they are unaware of the obligations they have as an employer, 19 per cent are aware they have obligations but are not confident in actioning them and 13 per cent feel it is not their role to do so.

The findings coincide with Business Link launching a new tool to help small businesses understand their employment law obligations.

Lord Young, employment relations minister, says: ‘This study helps us identify the knowledge gap, and the reasons behind this, to enable us to continue to improve the advice and support we offer. I expect all small businesses to access this help for free on the Business Link website to make sure they know their responsibilities.

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