Former enterprise minister to lead workplace review

An independent review of workplace policies involving trade unions, businesses, academics and government is to be led by a former enterprise minister.

Jim Mather will chair the review which will provide recommendations to improve workplaces through co-operation between unions and employers.

The group will look at ways to enhance productivity and build a more secure and resilient labour market, and opportunities to improve collective bargaining, workplace democracy, diversity and equality, and the participation of women.

It will report back on its findings in July.

Finance Secretary John Swinney said: “The Scottish Government is committed to working with the Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) and employer representatives across all sectors in Scotland to build on positive working relationship within the workplace.

“Together with STUC and senior business partners, the review will help foster a constructive and collaborative approach to industrial relations, helping create stronger relationships between government, employers and trade unions.

“While employment law is currently reserved to the UK Government, we have made clear our commitment to a partnership approach involving trade unions, employees and employers to deliver sustainable economic growth.”

Mr Mather said: “I am delighted to be involved in this work, especially given its sound gender balance, representative blend of private sector, public sector and trade unions, participation of very able people with complementary perspectives and the prospect of genuine purposeful dialogue.”

General secretary of the STUC Grahame Smith said: “This review builds on work the STUC is already undertaking with the Scottish Government and progressive employers to expand the role that unions play in the workplace and in the wider economy in recognition of the central contribution that good employment practice makes to achieving economic success and social justice.”