General News

NATIONAL MINIMUM WAGE rates have increased with effect from 1 October 2008. All employers must ensure that the rates which they are paying are meeting the new thresholds. Details of the new rates can be obtained by following the link on our USEFUL LINKS page.

STATUTORY HOLIDAY ENTITLEMENT has increased  Employers should note that the statutory requirements apply also to Part time staff - for whom the entitlement is calculated on a pro rata basis.

BANK SAVINGS in British Bank accounts of up to £50,000 will now be guaranteed. The increase comes into effect on Tuesday 7 October 2008. It is significant however that when Bradford & Bingley was nationalised, the government effectively guaranteed all of the bank's deposits even though a substantial number of depositors held more than £50,000.