If a second bout of swine flu hits the UK in the autumn, the new working time rules could pose havoc on business operations, according to West Midlands business leaders.  

Cathy Davies, network manager of Enterprise Europe West Midlands (EEN), part of Birmingham Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCI), said as employees strive to cover for sick colleagues, they could well find themselves in breach of the Working Time Directive.

In liaison with international law firm, Pinsent Masons, the EEN is organising a two-hour breakfast and presentation on September 24.  The free workshop will review recent developments and will explore how employers are coping.  

Cathy Davies said: "The Chamber of Commerce believes that the availability of an opt out from the 48 hour maximum working week is beneficial to both employers and employees.   Businesses need a flexible economic environment in order to maximise productivity and profitability.  A central ingredient to this environment is a flexible labour market.

"BCI does not support a long hours working culture.  However employees should have the choice whether or not to work longer hours. The freedom for employees to define their working hours, with the agreement of their employer, is of benefit to both when disasters like swine flu strike.

"Removing the opt out cannot be justified on health and safety grounds. The UK has one of the best records on health and safety in the EU and has also recently legislated to promote flexible working practices.  As a result the number of hours worked in the UK is declining."

To be held at the Hotel Du Vin in the city centre, the working time directive presentations start at 8am and finish with questions and answers at 9.40am.

For further information contact Alison Hawkins tel. 0121 455 0268.