As the Government continues its commitment to equal pay in the UK, companies will soon be required to display salary information in their job adverts.
While the exact conditions of the new laws have not yet been confirmed, ministers are hopeful that disclosing said information will help encourage equal pay across all sectors.
What salary information could be required?
Currently, there is no legal obligation for businesses to display wages in their job adverts. The new anti-discrimination law could require employers to either display a salary range or an exact salary number, as well as any bonuses.
Right now, the Government is inviting businesses, workers and civil society to have their say as they launch a consultation to help shape the new laws.
So far, the proposals call for companies of more than 100 workers to disclose pay or pay range for any new roles, as well as not to ask candidates about their pay history.
What is more, the proposals are meant for England, Scotland and Wales, with the precise terms and legislation being ironed out by the end of October of this year.
Seema Malhotra MP, Minister for Equalities, said: “The Equal Pay Act was a huge achievement. But 50 years on, it is clear that this landmark legislation needs reform to ensure it works for everyone. The current equal pay framework is too slow, too expensive, and puts too much pressure on workers, businesses, and the justice system.
This government is committed to ending pay discrimination, and making work pay. That is why we are launching this consultation, so we can work with businesses, workers, and trade unions to level up protections for women and make the system fairer for ethnic minorities.
Fixing equal pay is key to this plan. Fairer workplaces are more productive and better for the economy and society. That is why it is vital we do this properly and get this right.”
Kate Dearden MP, Employment Rights Minister, said: “Equal work must be fairly rewarded because we know paying a fair wage leads to better living standards, which in turn leads to increased productivity, innovation, and the ability for firms to attract and retain the talent they need.”
“We’re partnering with employers, workers and trade unions to ensure fair pay forms the foundation of a high-skilled, high-productivity economy.”
Paul Nowak, TUC General Secretary, said: “The principle of equal pay is fundamental for equality. It ensures that women – who often work in historically undervalued sectors – get fair pay compared to their male colleagues. Yet despite equal pay legislation having been introduced over 50 years ago, pay discrimination remains widespread.”
“That’s why we welcome the government’s consultation on reforming the equal pay system to make sure it’s fit for purpose. And expanding the system on the basis of race and disability status is a step in the right direction. Trade unions stand ready to work with the government to make sure the new system delivers for working people.”
If you would like to have your say, check out the consultation page here.
