The Government has announced today that due to the unprecedented pressures faced by employers during the COVID-19 crisis, it has suspended the obligation for large employers to report their gender pay gap. The suspension is for the 2020/21 reporting year, so clearly the intention is that the scheme will return as normal for the next round. It remains to be seen whether adjustments will then have to be made to recognise the fact that the month of April this year, which will serve as the "snap shot" date for pay reporting next year, may not provide the most accurate basis for calculating pay.
Employers can choose to report this year's figures if they wish, and according to the Government, 26% of large employers have already done so. For those employers who have already prepared and who may have a good story to tell, it may still be worthwhile publishing. For others, the suspension will no doubt come as a huge relief in the midst of the numerous other challenges they have to deal with at the present time.
Please click here to read the Government's announcement. If you have any queries, please email your usual Mishcon contact.
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