Firms have been urged to examine their wage systems to make sure they comply with equal pay laws over the persistent gap between the earnings of men and women.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) said full-time female workers were still paid 16.4 per cent per hour less than men on average, rising to 21.6 per cent in private sector.
The commission and the British Chambers of Commerce published a new guide so employers can check pay systems in four hours.
EHRC commissioner Jean Irvine said that, while transparency was not enough in itself to tackle the gender pay gap, it would help provide clarity.
"It is difficult, if not impossible, to resolve a problem that cannot be seen," she said.
"What we ask of small and medium-size employers is not difficult.
"It takes minimal time and effort but can offer a real return. Linking equal work to equal pay will see employees rewarded fairly for the work they do."
If you have enjoyed this article then please consider donating to the Morning Star's Fighting Fund to ensure we can keep publishing your paper.
Party political manoeuvring between the Greek social-democratic, conservative and fascist parties has delayed acceptance of the blackmail demands presented by the troika of European Union, International Monetary Fund and the European Central Bank.
The growing intervention in Syrian internal affairs demonstrates the West's blatant attempt to rally reactionary Arab forces in support of its continued domination of the region, says George Galloway
Jacqui Smith's bizarre call to get schmoozing with the City
Printable
Email