[Sephiroth]

Originally Posted by jonbxx

Certainly for the UK and some other countries, the lower limits of the WTD are exceeded by some measure (28 days holiday in the UK vs. 20 specified in the WTD) There is also the ‘opt out’ clause but, as others have said, that is sometimes enforced by employers which is a bit dodgy. My work contract is somewhat fluffy on this issue saying ‘there may be times when you may need to work more than 48 hours per week as needed’. My Belgian work mate has a much more restrictive contract giving him time off in lieu if he works more than 2 hours after 6pm, including travelling. Lucky sod!

I see these directives as the minimum standard. How do you feel they are more restrictive and complicated than a UK law?

As I've pointed out, the 48 hours rule was there to protect French restrictive labour practices[ and had to be shennanigan'd through because of the British veto.


To be fair, I don't have any problem with the rest of the WTD and thank goodness that at least we have an opt out on the 48 hour article.