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South Cambridgeshire Defends Four-Day Workweek Amid Criticism

10/29/2025

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Summary

Story summary

South Cambridgeshire District Council leader Bridget Smith defended the four-day workweek after Communities Secretary Steve Reed expressed disappointment.
She said the arrangement saved nearly £400,000 and improved staff retention, with independent assessments showing stable performance.
Smith attributed Reed's concerns about housing service performance to external factors such as the cost of living.
The government discourages full pay for part-time work but cannot enforce a five-day week.

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Story summary

South Cambridgeshire District Council leader Bridget Smith defended the four-day workweek after Communities Secretary Steve Reed expressed disappointment.
She said the arrangement saved nearly £400,000 and improved staff retention, with independent assessments showing stable performance.
Smith attributed Reed's concerns about housing service performance to external factors such as the cost of living.
The government discourages full pay for part-time work but cannot enforce a five-day week.