Cotton hits out at burden of Government legislation

The hospitality industry is suffering under the burden of more than 40 Government bills introduced since the General Election, according to Bob Cotton, chief executive of the British Hospitality Association (BHA).

In his statement in the 2005 BHA Annual Report, Cotton said: "The Work and Families Bill, in addition to introducing up to six months' paternity pay and eventually doubling maternity pay, will add 40% to the number of statutory paid holidays to which employees are entitled.

"As a result perhaps four million days a year will be lost across our industry."

Cotton also stressed concerns over the impact of the Government's Violent Crime Reduction Bill and Alcohol Disorder Zones and new immigration guidelines.

Criticising the "chaotic process" of implementing the new licensing act, he added: "The question has to be asked whether the Government is capable of organising any process without adding cost and confusion."

The report highlights 24 lobbying issues in which the association has been active during the year.

By Jessica Gunn

Get your copy of Caterer and Hotelkeeper every week -