Spain: Working time reduction measure defeated

Spanish Labour minister’s plan to cut working hours faces defeat as political opposition echoing the concerns of small businesses derail legislation aimed at reducing the standard work week

The key points: A bill to reduce the standard work week in Spain from 40 to 37.5 hours was blocked in the lower house, with opposition from business-friendly lawmakers and smaller employer groups. The Labour Minister and main trade unions had championed the measure, but concerns about increased costs and potential job losses prevailed.

Why this matters: This defeat highlights the challenges in balancing worker welfare improvements with economic and business realities. The tension between political will for labour reform and practical business concerns is a common theme in employment law debates.

What might happen next:  The Labour Minister intends to reintroduce the proposal, so the debate is likely to continue. Additional negotiations or compromises to address cost and employment concerns may be necessary. Members with employers in Spain should monitor the situation closely and prepare for possible changes to working time regulations.