The Government will increase statutory redundancy pay from 350 per week to 380 per week.

The Government has announced more financial help for older workers.

Costs and budget have become the main priority of HR, taking precedent over strategy, recruitment, retention, motivation and training, according to a snapshot survey of HR magazine readers.

HR directors believe the profession is becoming more strategic despite budget cuts.

Employers plan to reduce travel, fringe benefits and the opportunity to work over time as budgets are cut in recession.