8. Pay and Working Time

Abstract

This chapter examines the statutory regulation of the wage–work bargain and the working conditions of ‘employees’ and ‘workers’, analysing their historical background and the justifications for their introduction. It covers the rights conferred on employees and workers under the National Minimum Wage Act 1998 and the Working Time Regulations 1998, including working time rights and the right to annual leave. Both laws have the capacity to over-ride the mutually agreed contractual arrangements struck by the parties. The chapter also addresses the provisions of the Employment Rights Act 1996 relating to wages (e.g. the statutory right not to suffer unauthorized deductions from wages, and the right to a guarantee payment).