BUSINESSES in Kent have coped well with changes in employment rights since the Labour Government took office, according to a survey by the University of Greenwich.

The survey found that relations between employers and staff were good. But the research, undertaken in association with arbitration service Acas, highlighted concerns, including a shortage of skilled and professional staff and the impact of current work practices on the family.

Geoff White, head of management at the University of Greenwich Business School, said: "This survey clearly shows that Kent provides a very good employee relations environment in which to do business, but skill shortages will require particular attention for future development."

Chris Martin, south east director of Acas, said: "Overall, the survey gives a positive view of employment relations in Kent, with workplaces adapting well to change.

"However there are real concerns about how increased maternity and paternity rights will affect an area where the majority of workers are female.

"The provision of more flexible working arrangements might also become a key factor in workplaces' success in competing for new staff."

The survey also found that trade union membership at around 50 per cent is slightly lower than the national average of 53 per cent but union recognition is higher - 54 per cent compared with 45 per cent nationally.

Employment in Kent was generally stable - most workplaces were well established and the local economy buoyant.

Six in ten workplaces reported an increase in employment over the previous three years.

Around 800 organisations took part in the survey sponsored by the Government Office for the South East, the South East Region Trades Union Congress, the Kent branch of the Institute of Directors, and the Engineering Empoyers Federation South.