Data protection
From 6 April 2020, 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 increases 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 reduces 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 4 April 2010, the standard rates of statutory maternity
pay, statutory paternity pay and statutory adoption pay will increase from £123.06
to £124.88. Statutory sick pay will continue at the rate of £79.15 per week.
Trade union blacklisting
Finally, don't forget that regulations came into force on 2
March 2010 making it unlawful to dismiss employees or refuse employment on the
grounds of trade union membership or activities.