NEWS & EVENTS

Employers in the region have been advised to check their contracts of employment in preparation for next years wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton.

The advice comes from Roythornes Solicitors who said issues had been raised about whether some staff would be entitled to the day off at all.

Employment law specialist Phil Cookson said:

"It all depends on how their employment contracts are worded in relation to bank holidays. 

The Working Time Regulations give all employees the right to 5.6 annual leave which equates to 20 days plus 8 standard bank holidays.  But with an extra bank holiday next year there could be issues.

If for example their contract says their entitlement is "28 days including bank holidays" there would theoretically be no obligation on the employer to give the time off.  If however the contract said "20 days plus bank holidays" then the assumption would be that they have to give the additional day off."

Phil went on to say that most employers would probably give staff the day off anyway, but they should be aware of potential issues:

"Hopefully most employers will see this as an opportunity for their staff to join the rest of the country in celebrating the wedding, but they should check their contracts now so they are aware of any issues which could arise following their decision."

Phil also said there were issues surrounding the whole of the Easter holiday period:

"Employers should also prepare for expected the mass booking of holidays between Easter and May bank Holiday 2011 which, with the 'wedding bank holiday' gives employees a possible 11 day break for the 'cost' of three days holiday!  They should remind staff of their holiday booking procedure and the need to maintain cover etc if this is the case."