EU 'can force firms to consult workers on teabags'

New European rules could force firms to consult their workers on which brand of tea bags should be used in offices and what colour the carpets should be, the British Conservatives have claimed.

The “bizarre” work rules could mean firms would have to consult staff on menial issues, which will increase costs and undermine competitiveness, it was alleged.

Shadow British industry secretary Stephen O’Brien will attack the “over-the-top” rules in the Commons next week during a second reading of the Employment Relations Bill.

He will warn that the EU’s Information and Consultation Directive will interfere with business decision-making.

“It’s absurd to think that companies could be forced by bureaucrats in Brussels to consult staff on the smallest of issues, which will be a waste of time for both employers and employees,” said Mr O’Brien.

“The Directive is clearly unnecessary and will lead to a ‘one size fits all’ approach to employee relations.

“The government is yet again choosing to adopt the job-destroying EU employment model that undermines labour flexibility.

“Compelling companies to consult and inform their workforce on everyday issues would be burdensome and not the best way to achieve best practice.”