Ascertain if collective consultation is necessary in relation to a proposed change to employment contracts

Key points

If employees do not consent to a proposed change to their employment contracts, the employer may decide to implement the change by dismissing the employees and re-engaging them on new contractual terms.
Depending on the number of employees affected and the timing of the proposed dismissals, the employer may have a statutory duty to consult collectively with representatives of the employees before giving notice of any dismissals.