Workers crossing English border ‘should check with employers’

Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford has urged Welsh employees who work in England to discuss the matter of returning to work with their employer before doing so.

The advice comes after UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced that some companies may now ask employees to return to work if they cannot do so from home.

The announcement on Sunday, May 10, raised concerns that Welsh employees who work in England may be caught between different guidance between the two countries. In Wales, only those in essential work are advised not to work from home.

Speaking during the daily Welsh Government press briefing, Mr Drakeford said there aren’t major differences in the rules on either side of the border as far as work is concerned, but that “there was a bit of a difference in tone” in the way Prime Minister Boris Johnson had “encouraged people to go back to work.”

He also confirmed that the Welsh Government has been working with employers and trade unions to prepare workplaces to be safe, and that employees should check with their employers that they feel comfortable to return to work before doing so.