Four-Day Workweek: Opportunities and Challenges for the Local Government

The Deputy Prime Minister, Angela Rayner, is fueling a lively debate about the introduction of a four-day workweek, which, according to her, should not pose a threat to the economy. On the contrary, she expects it to increase productivity within local governments. This view contrasts with the statements of conservative opposition politician Kemi Badenoch, who called this idea "unacceptable." The discussion reignited after the South Cambridgeshire District Council, based on a pilot project, allowed employees to deliver 100% of their performance in 80% of the usual working time while still receiving their full salary. However, a notice from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities last November warned of potential performance losses. Rayner, who also serves as Minister for Local Government, pointed out that flexible working models, such as the four-day workweek, do not threaten the business world and the economy; rather, they can serve as a catalyst for productivity increases. She emphasized that it is not the government's role to dictate service design to the municipalities, but rather to work collaboratively with them. Criticism also comes from Simon Hoare, a former Minister of Local Government, who earlier this year highlighted the government's opposition to part-time work with full-time pay. Kemi Badenoch also pointed out the potential financial burdens that the proposed legislation on workers' rights could bring for local authorities. She questioned whether the increased costs could be offset by an increase in employer national insurance. The Minister for Communities, Jim McMahon, stated that decisions on the budget and local financial regulations would be made in due course, leaving room for future discussions on financial support for municipalities.