ROUTES TO RESOLUTION: IMPROVING DISPUTE RESOLUTION IN BRITAIN
GOVERNMENT RESPONSE
Foreword
In the "Routes
to Resolution"  (168Kb) consultation document, I set out our goal: a high
skill, high productivity economy achieved through high performance workplaces,
where employers and employees work together in partnership.
It explained the need for
change and laid down some ambitious proposals for attaining that goal through
the creation of a modern dispute resolution system that was fit to give high
quality service to all who needed it.
The responses we received
were thorough and constructive. There was considerable support for our intention
to resolve disputes by encouraging more productive dialogue in the workplace,
although not all the proposals were supported. A number of alternative proposals
were suggested and we considered these alongside the proposals set out in the
consultation document. The result is a balanced package. It provides a firm
foundation for better communication in the workplace, and a faster, more
efficient employment tribunal system.
We will include those
proposals which require primary legislation in the Employment
Bill, which we introduced yesterday. Others will also be taken forward
speedily. The creation of the independent Employment Tribunal System Taskforce,
announced on 25 October, will, as part of its wider remit, have an interest in
the operational issues arising from the other proposals that we are taking
forward.
I am grateful to everyone
who found the time to give us their views. This paper summarises the comments we
received and sets out the programme of reform that is our response.
Alan
Johnson MP
Minister of State for Employment Relations and the Regions
8 November 2001
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