Proposed employment law reforms are unworkable, according to a survey of employment lawyers. More than three quarters (78%) of lawyers polled by solicitor network Contact Law said reforms announced last month by business secretary Vince Cable would lead to a ‘hire and fire’ culture. Only 8% of respondents were in favour of the package.

Respondents were critical of the plan for ‘no fault’ dismissals and 73% said they did not think the proposals would help small businesses.