Local Authorities Four-day Week 2024-01-22
2024-01-22
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The MP is questioning the government's stance on implementing a four-day workweek in local authorities, noting previous statements supporting devolution and full autonomy.
What assessment has been made of the potential merits of a four-day working week for local authority employees?
The Government have been crystal clear that we do not support any attempt from local authorities to implement part-time work for full-time pay. Removing capacity to deliver services to residents is not acceptable. The Government have taken steps to deter councils from operating such practices, and we will take further steps if necessary.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP references the government's earlier support for devolution and raises concerns about threats and bullying tactics to prevent councils from implementing four-day workweeks or other cost-saving measures.
How does the Government's shocking attempts, through threats and bullying tactics, to strangle local council autonomy fit with the laudable aim of full devolution?
If the hon. Gentleman can construct an argument for hard-working families across the country that five days' pay and benefits is commensurate with four days' work a week, I would be interested in hearing it. I invite him in all seriousness to consider the impact on the public's perception of the public sector if it is given out that we can afford to work four days a week but still expect and receive five days' pay.
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Assessment & feedback
The question about how government actions align with full devolution was not directly addressed. Instead, the answer focused on challenging the premise of the four-day workweek without providing specifics on alignment or policy details.
Challenging The Mp'S Argument
Response accuracy