Framework Agreement on Part-Time Work

The general cross-industry organisations UNICE, CEEP and the ETUC concluded, on 6 June 1997, a Framework Agreement on part-time work and forwarded to the Commission their joint request to implement this Framework Agreement, in accordance with Article 4(2) of the Agreement on social policy.

On 15 December 1997 the Council adopted Directive 97/81/EC implementing the Framework Agreement on part-time work concluded by the social partners. The Directive was extended to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland by Council Directive 98/23/EC of 7 April 1998. Directive 97/81/EC entered into force on 20 January 1998.

The Agreement relates to employment conditions of part-time workers, recognising that matters concerning statutory social security are for decision by the Member States.