The UK's opt-out from the Working Time Directive is "a cornerstone" of the nation's competitive advantage, according to one industry body.
Louise Morgan, senior policy adviser in the employer and employee relations team at the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) explained that while the government has made some connections to retain the opt-out., it still means that the country's workforce is one of the most flexible in Europe.
She said: "It's not a new thing, it's very much a continued competitive advantage, but I think that it is very much an important part of that and it is our labour market flexibility that makes us such an attractive place to place your business."
The ongoing opt-out will mean that employers still have the flexibility to respond to peaks in demand, she added.
If approved, the new deal on the directive will prohibit employers from asking their staff to sign up to work more than 48-hours a week during their first month of employment.
