Labour is outlining plans to make flexible working and working from home easier to request and harder for employers to reject. Under the proposals discussed by Louise Haigh with union leaders, firms that intend to refuse an employee’s flexible working request would have to provide a clear explanation to the worker.
The proposal includes a requirement that employers explain their decision face-to-face and state their reasons. This would aim to increase transparency in how decisions are reached, particularly for employees seeking arrangements that support working from home.
Across coverage, the focus stays on the same core element: if an employer plans to turn down a flexible working request, it must formally justify the refusal directly to the employee. The outlets do not describe details on timing, scope, or enforcement measures beyond this requirement to explain and discuss the decision with the worker.
