PEOPLE in Britain work the longest hours in Europe. In the north west alone 422,000 work more than 48 hours a week, and it's not through choice. Government figures show that 71% of local workers want to work fewer hours.

The law is meant to give most people a right not to work more than 48 hours a week on average, unless they sign an opt-out from the Working Time Regulations. But the law is widely ignored, and most people do not know their rights. TUC research shows that nearly 36,000 people in the north west have signed an opt-out but were given no choice about doing so, and 266,000 work more than 48 hours a week and have not signed an opt out.

This is why the TUC has launched the 'It's about time' campaign. Long hours and stress are one of the most common complaints in Britain's workplaces. We are asking people to tell us about their long hours stories, particularly if they are working more than 48 hours against their will or have not signed an opt-out. You can tell us through our website http:/ww.worksmart.org.uk/itsabouttime or by calling the TUC time line at 0870 8 500 500. Worksmart gives more information about working time rights and a leaflet on long hours is available from the time line.

All the stories we get will be used as evidence (with anonymity preserved of course) in our campaign to give people at work in Britain the same rights enjoyed across the rest of Europe. It's about time.

Brendan Barber

TUC General Secretary