23 February 2016

As the House of Lords return to debate the Trade Union Bill in its third day at Committee stage, including planned restrictions on facility time in the public sector research conducted at the University of Bradford has shown that paid time off for union reps deliver “clear cost benefits” for the public purse.

For every £1 spent on paying public sector union reps to represent workers, £2.31 of taxpayers’ money is saved by reducing illness, increase staff retention, and improving relations between employers and workers.

Indeed, the research reveals that turnover is nearly three times lower in unionised workplaces than those without a union presence, saving over £66 million a year in recruitment costs in the NHS alone.

The Conservatives have argued that facility time in the public sector is “excessive”, but the new figures have debunked this myth.

According to the study, 84% of public sector managers valued and trusted full-time union reps, but only 2.8% of unionised public sector workplaces benefit from a rep that spends nearly or all of their time on trade union duties.

Professor of Industrial Relations at the University of Bradford Gregor Gail, who authored the report, said: “This research lays to bed the myth that facility time is out of control and a drain on public resources. It delivers clear cost benefits and is good for employers and employees.”

TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady said: “Paid time off for public sector union reps to represent their members is granted by employers because it is good for staff well-being, improves communication and stops problems escalating into disputes.

“This government’s decision to cap facility time in the public sector is mean-spirited and incredibly short-sighted. It will serve only to strain industrial relations.”