Story perspectives

UK Conservatives Propose Ban on Four-Day Workweek for Council Staff

4/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

The UK Conservative Party plans to ban full-time council staff from a four-day week.
Sir James Cleverly (Shadow local government secretary) says taxpayers should not pay full rates for part-time services.
The proposal contrasts with a South Cambridgeshire District Council four-day week trial that reports improved morale.
Labour Party critics say the Conservatives are out of touch.
The Labour government supports flexible working and opposes full pay for part-time staff.

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Story summary

The UK Conservative Party plans to ban full-time council staff from a four-day week.
Sir James Cleverly (Shadow local government secretary) says taxpayers should not pay full rates for part-time services.
The proposal contrasts with a South Cambridgeshire District Council four-day week trial that reports improved morale.
Labour Party critics say the Conservatives are out of touch.
The Labour government supports flexible working and opposes full pay for part-time staff.