RECORD numbers of workers are falling out with their employers.

The Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS) today reported that it had been involved in more than 14,432 employment rights cases in 1995 - a 33 per cent rise on 1994.

But around 70 cent of claims were withdrawn or settled after ACAS - which has an office in Blackburn - became involved.

The largest increase in cases was for people alleging breach of employment contracts, including disciplinary procedures and notice pay disputes.

Claims of unfair dismissal, sex discrimination and equal pay fell slightly during 1995.

More than 72,000 calls were taken by the ACAS enquiry lines last year. "ACAS will continue to work towards the improvement of employment practices as it has done for over 20 years," said ACAS North West regional director Paul Oliver.

"The growing awareness of employment rights together with the strains placed by continuous change in people's working lives will ensure that the North West has its share of problems.

"Our approach is flexible, readily available and helps to bring mutually acceptable solutions through dialogue - better jaw than war!"

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