EMPLOYEES of Bolton companies will have to wait for up to three years longer than their European counterparts to gain the right to be consulted about major decisions affecting their livelihoods.

Euro-MPs this week gave their approval to new legislation intended to ensure European workers have the same minimum rights to information and consultation.

But the measure has been delayed by government opposition which has insisted on the UK having a six year opt out until 2008.

Eventually it will mean that employees of organisations employing more than 50 people have to be informed about the company's financial position, and consulted before decisions are made about substantial changes in contractual arrangements or in the organisation of work, especially if there is a threat to jobs.

Liberal Democrat MEP Chris Davies said: "Why should people in Britain be denied the rights already enjoyed by others across Europe?

"This is a very modest measure, and many Labour supporters will surely regard it a betrayal that their own government has fought tooth and nail to block it."