As the lights dim and the nights get longer, we at MILS have been kept busy this season and have noticed a discernable rise in telephone and email queries relating to restructuring and redundancies, as the uncertain economic climate continues.

In this update we start with some good news for employers, relating to a proposal (just that, at this stage, before you get too excited) to increase the Unfair Dismissal qualifying period from 1 year to 2 years. We also consider a good Employment Appeal decision confirming the right to apply for costs against vexatious serial litigants. We then turn to more sobering matters and look at a case confirming the strict law in relation to selection for redundancy. We further comment on the major topic of the last six months, namely the Equality Act 2010 and then finish by looking at E.U. proposals relating to extended maternity rights.

Summary of Key Developments

1. Proposal to increase Unfair Dismissal qualifying period.
2. Vexatious litigants and costs.
3. Employment Appeal Tribunal guidance on redundancy selection.
4. Update on the Equality Act 2010.
5. Proposals regarding extended maternity rights.