The incoming agency workers’ directive has been labelled more of a hindrance than a help in the latest Labour Market Outlook ‘Employer Focus’ survey.

The survey from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and KPMG shows that 32% say the regulations, due to come into effect in October 2011, say the regulations will be a hindrance to business, while just 13% say it will be help their business.

Employers are split on working time regulations with the same percentage (28%) saying the legislation was as much a help as a hindrance.

Mike Emmott, employee relations adviser, CIPD, says: “While employers are supportive of the national minimum wage and a plethora of equality rights, they are yet to be convinced about the merits of the Agency Workers Directive and the Working Time Directive. 

“The CIPD believes that the Working Time Regulations in particular have negligible value in limiting unhealthy workplace behaviour. We are, therefore, calling for its repeal in the context of the review currently being undertaken by the European Commission.”