Reeves’ position differs from that of other Labour government ministers who are planning to introduce legislation to support flexible working. The UK economy has struggled with productivity growth since the 2008 financial crisis, which has been exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic. We’ve written more about this here .
In an interview with LBC radio, Reeves said: “I am all for flexibility and people being able to balance work and family life, but I think productivity gains are more likely to happen when ideas are exchanged and spoken about face to face.”
Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds has a different view. According to him, it is not so important that workers stay in one place. “If we are to solve the problem of low productivity and low growth in Britain, we will judge people by what they do, by their performance, not by whether they sit at their desk,” Reynolds said.
Labour has previously announced it will introduce new legislation that would make flexible working the default for all workers from day one.
Source: Reuters
Cover image is an illustration. Cover image source: Getty Images
