Thursday 17 June 2021

LCCI CEO Richard Burge talks about the capital's flexible working post-pandemic future:

“Our research with London businesses shows that the majority that are able to will continue remote working post-pandemic. The proportion of remote working, of course, varies company by company. But most commonly there is an intention and expectation to mix office and remote presence, rather than have most staff working remotely all week.

“Government working with rail companies to launch flexible season tickets is a welcome way of supporting this emerging economy and increase movement back into our city centres. Consultation with business regarding level playing field rights for employees to discuss flexible working with their employer would be further acknowledgment of a flexible working legacy of the pandemic.

“The key for London is acknowledging the emergence of a hybrid economy and planning for it, the pros and cons.

"As we emerge from the restrictions, businesses will embed the ways of working that are best for them. And naturally these will evolve over time. Government must of course ensure workers rights are fair, but it's important that the Government does not look to dictate how businesses should work.

"Government need to provide the infrastructure to keep the economy safely open – such as a functioning border system that allows for inbound and outbound tourism and business travel, and a functioning Test and Trace system and isolation pay policy that can counter potential variant emergence.”