Musk’s federal workforce overhaul sparks controversy
Elon Musk, appointed by President Trump to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (Doge), has ordered federal employees to list their weekly accomplishments or face resignation. The directive, announced on X, has sparked backlash, with agencies like the FBI and State Department refusing to comply.
Critics, including the American Federation of Government Employees, call the move “cruel and disrespectful,” while Musk claims it’s necessary to prevent payroll fraud. Trump defended the initiative at CPAC, stating that it aimed to eliminate inefficiency and bureaucracy. Additionally, concerns over transparency, job security, and legal implications continue to fuel the debate.
Lawyer suspended after secret side hustle exposed
Regulators suspended solicitor Mark Ian Williams for privately providing counselling services to his employer’s clients without disclosure, highlighting the risks of overlapping primary and secondary jobs. HR experts advise employers to monitor performance, engagement, and well-being for signs of distraction from external work. Establishing clear disclosure policies and guidelines around conflicts of interest is essential.
A proactive approach encourages open conversations about secondary employment, allowing employees to enhance their skills without compromising work quality. Clear communication and consistent policy enforcement are key to managing potential conflicts effectively.
Why the class pay gap is a business issue, not just a social one
According to the Social Mobility Foundation, professionals from working-class backgrounds earn an average of £6,000 (12%) less annually than their more privileged peers in the same roles. Class Pay Gap Day on November 17 highlights this disparity, with working-class professionals effectively working one in eight days for free.
In addition, the private sector sees even wider gaps, with an average annual pay difference of £7,774. Addressing this issue is not only a matter of fairness but essential for businesses seeking diverse perspectives and enhanced productivity, as systemic barriers continue to restrict access and advancement for many talented individuals.