Discipline and grievance code consultation

The Government said the new code would encourage businesses and individuals to resolve disputes internally, saving money and time.

The code has been revised to take into account the changes being made to workplace dispute resolution by the Employment Bill, currently before Parliament - particularly the removal of the statutory dismissal and discipline procedures.

Minister for Employment Relations, Pat McFadden, said: "The new code is a key element in the Government's plans to streamline and simplify the dispute resolution system to the benefit of employers and employees.

"It will complement the removal of statutory measures by establishing flexible, principles-based guidance to help resolve disputes early."

The revised code is shorter than the existing code and provides basic practical guidance to employers, employees and their representatives and sets out principles for handling disciplinary and grievance situations in the workplace.

Copies of the draft code can be obtained here. The deadline for comment is 25 July 2008.