Data protection
From 6 April 2010, the Information Commissioner has the power to
fine organisations up to £500,000 for serious breaches of the Data Protection
Act 1998.
Pensions
From 6 April 2010, the minimum pension age increased from 50 to
55 unless retirement is on the grounds of serious ill health, the member has a
protected pension age, or the member started taking benefits before 6 April
2010. Meanwhile, the number of years needed to receive a full basic state
pension reduced to 30. The state pension
retirement age for women born on or after 6 April 1950 will rise to
65 between 2010 and 2020.
Statutory maternity, paternity and adoption pay
From 6 April 2012, the standard rates of statutory maternity
pay, statutory paternity pay and statutory adoption pay is £135.45. Statutory sick pay
is £85.85 per week.
Trade union blacklisting
Finally, don't forget that regulations came into force in 2010 making it unlawful to dismiss employees or refuse employment on the
grounds of trade union membership or activities.