Petty cash... new flexible working rules

⬤ Energy regulator Ofgem is to update its rules to allow the energy ombudsman to intervene in disputes between businesses and energy companies as the government seeks to crack down on unfair contracts and rip-off broker fees. In future, the ombudsman will be allowed to consider complaints made by firms with up to 50 employees, compared with only ten today. New rules will also require suppliers to disclose all fees and commissions paid to third-party brokers. The changes reflect concern that small businesses using brokers to arrange gas and energy contracts are unwittingly paying high charges.

⬤ New fees on imports will come into effect later this month, the government has confirmed, potentially adding significant costs to businesses that bring plant and animal products into the country. The charges, payable at up to £145 per consignment, are a post-Brexit necessity, ministers insist, and will apply from 30 April. Small-business groups have warned that the fees will make it commercially unviable to continue importing some products.

⬤ Does your business understand the new rules on flexible working? New laws that came into effect on 6 April give all staff the right to request flexible working arrangements from day one in the job, rather than having to wait until they have been employed for 26 weeks, as was previously the case. Staff will also be able to make such requests twice a year. Employers are now required to consult with employees making such requests – and may only reject them where they can show reasonable grounds for doing so.