Public Servants working in the United Kingdom Department responsible for Revenue and Customs have been given the option to sell their annual leave.
The trial allows workers in the Department to sell up to five days’ time off for the current leave year.
The Public and Commercial Services Union (PCS) said it had “very serious concerns” about the trial.
Although there is to be no obligation on staff to sell any leave, the PCS said poorer-paid officials could “end-up feeling they have no choice but to work for longer than their better-paid colleagues”.
The PCS also raised concerns about the consultation with unions and the potential impact on pensions.
“The timing of this trial appears incredibly cynical, given the current cost-of-living crisis,” the PCS said.
“Many members of staff are facing severe financial difficulties, due to the skyrocketing cost of living and against the backdrop of the Government refusing to offer public sector workers a decent pay increase.”
It said with PCS members across the Public Service relying on foodbanks “it’s clear to us that although management claims selling leave designed for rest and recuperation is optional, the reality will be that some members will feel they have no choice in the matter”.
A Department spokesperson said officers had asked for the chance to sell leave.
“This trial gives them the choice to sell some leave but there’s absolutely no obligation to do so,” the spokesperson said.
“We’ve consulted with trade unions on the trial’s implementation and continue to work closely with them.”
London, 25 January 2023
