Feature Articles

The Equality Act 2010 (EqA) is explicit in its prohibition of pregnancy and maternity discrimination. Yet, in the period 2020–2021, the employment tribunals in the UK heard 1435 cases of pregnancy and maternity-related detriment or dismissal, making it the 5th most common discrimination claim.

Recent events demonstrate that it is important for organisations to continually identify emerging risks. Mike Sopp explores the measures that can be put in place to maintain organisational resilience.

A target of 80% of UK trade to be covered by free trade agreements (FTAs) by the end of 2022 has been set by the Department of International Trade. The House of Commons Public Accounts Committee (PAC) in a report published in March said that represented a significant challenge.

Looking back to December 2019, before the world was irrevocably changed by the Covid pandemic, employers had another issue on their minds: the Employment Bill. This much lauded piece of legislation, containing many of the recommendations from the Taylor Review and subsequent Good Work Plan, was set to bring in a raft of new rights for employees and make Britain the “best place to work in the world”.

Pests and diseases have posed a threat to trees and woodlands in the UK for many years, but globalisation and the changing climate is increasing the risks. Laura King explores the situation and how organisations involved in woodland creation can ensure that they are planting for the future.

On 7 February 2022, Leeds Crown Court sentenced a fly-tipper to 15 months imprisonment.