Conservatives Plan to Ban Four-Day Workweek on Full Pay

0:00On April 7th, the Conservatives are pushing a new bill to ban four-day work weeks on full pay for public sector staff like town hall workers. If they win power, taxpayer-funded jobs couldn't cut hours without cutting salaries, while private companies could do what they want. South Cambridge Shard District Council kicked this off as England's first pilot back in 2023, making it permanent last year despite. Pushback from both Tory and Labour ministers, they claim it boosts hiring and saves on temp staff. Critics slam it hard, saying residents get worse service and housing and other spots, with one insider emitting shame over empty offices on rest days. Shadow Local Government Secretary Sir James cleverly calls it a rip-off for hard-working families footing the bill. Meanwhile, a Scottish pilot showed better productivity and well-being but stayed temporary. Greens back the idea nationwide, plaid Kymru Eyes a Welsh trial, and neighbouring councils are eyeing the switch too.

1:00Labour fires back that this started under Tories with no action then, and they've already warned councils against full pay for four days. Expect as debate to heat up as elections near, with public services caught in the middle.