Overview

This Trade Union Bill amends existing legislation concerning trade union ballots, political funds, and facility time. Key changes include introducing electronic balloting for strike ballots, reforming regulations around union political funds, and giving the government reserve powers to regulate facility time after a three-year period.

Description

Electronic Balloting

The bill mandates an independent review of secure electronic balloting methods for trade union ballots, followed by pilot schemes before a wider rollout. The Secretary of State will publish a strategy based on the review's findings.

Political Funds

The bill modifies regulations regarding contributions to trade union political funds. Members joining a union with a political fund after a transition period (at least 12 months) must explicitly opt-in to contribute. Existing contributors can also opt out. Trade unions must provide clear annual notification to members about their rights concerning political fund contributions. The Certification Officer will monitor compliance and publish findings.

Facility Time

After a three-year period, the government gains reserve powers to regulate facility time (time employees spend on union duties). These powers can only be exercised after considering various factors, including published employer information, cost to public funds, and the nature of the employer's undertaking. A period of notice to employers and opportunity to respond is also included.

Government Spending

The bill's direct impact on government spending is not explicitly stated. However, the review of electronic balloting and monitoring of compliance related to political funds will incur some cost. The potential costs associated with the government's reserve powers on facility time are also unclear.

Groups Affected

• Trade Unions: The bill significantly affects trade unions through changes to balloting procedures, political fund regulations, and potentially facility time. Compliance with new regulations will require resources and effort.
• Trade Union Members: Members will experience changes to how they contribute to political funds (opt-in/opt-out system) and the information provided on this matter.
• Employers: Employers may be affected by the government's reserve powers concerning facility time, potentially leading to adjustments in employee time allocation and costs.
• Certification Officer: Increased responsibilities for monitoring compliance with regulations relating to political funds and new reporting requirements.

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