A new report from the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has underlined just how important small firms are to strengthening the economy, tackling unemployment, and taking on people who are shut out of the labour market.

The European Parliament has urged the European Commission to improve existing EU legislation to close the gender pay gap, including stricter sanctions on employers.

Research carried out for the Inclusive Employers Foundation found people continue to experience different treatment or discrimination at work because of one or more aspect of their identity. Leading employers are realising that a new approach is needed in order to create an inclusive workplace which values individuals for the contribution they make.

Commenting on the government's review of employment law, the TUC has welcomed the proposed extension of the right to request flexible working, but has expressed concerns about other proposals up for review.