New regulations ensure companies abide by equal pay legislation

Companies must comply with equal pay law as new rules force those in breach of legislation to evaluate pay structure to prevent further violations.

The new regulations follow the introduction of the Think, Act, Report initiative in September 2011; this encouraged employers to take action to ensure gender equality and promote opportunities in the workplace. A breach of the equal pay law at a tribunal will result in the company having to undertake an equal pay audit, unless they qualify for one of four exceptions or are classed as exempt from the rules. 

Jo Swinson, minister for women and equalities, said: "These new rules mean that companies who break the law on equal pay will be forced to evaluate their pay structures to prevent further violations. We want all businesses to recognise how pay transparency can help attract, recruit and retain talented women staff, and encourage organisations to sign up to our Think, Act, Report initiative to promote equality in the workplace."