Britain's economic vitality is under the microscope as the decision by the public sector to adopt a four-day work week generates much discussion and concern. Indeed, the Welsh Government, backed by a council of public sector organisations and trade unions, has already decided to implement the change.
However, private organisations and entrepreneurs remain largely excluded from the conversation. This raises important questions about the potential impact on the UK economy and the balance between the public and private sectors.
The Four-Day Work Week: A Public Sector Preference?
The public sector's preference for a shorter working week is clear. Councils, including trade unions such as GMB, PCS and Unison, as well as councils and health organisations such as Natural Resources Wales, Hywel Dda University Health Board and Velindre NHS Trust, have shown their support.
Most of these organisations are funded by the taxpayer or made up of public sector workers, and have endorsed the four-day week for its potential benefits to worker wellbeing, productivity and environmental impact. However, the absence of the private sector from these discussions is a glaring omission.
Much of this debate has excluded the private sector, which makes a significant contribution to the UK economy. Neither have the potential disadvantages of a shorter working week for private businesses and entrepreneurs been thoroughly considered. This omission could have far-reaching implications for the balance between the public and private sectors in the UK.
The decision to reduce working hours in the public sector has come as a surprise to many. Scotland, under the leadership of First Minister Humza Yousaf, is experimenting with shorter working weeks in defiance of government policy. Similarly, South Cambridgeshire District Council is continuing with its four-day trial week in defiance of official orders.
Economic Implications of Shorter Work Weeks
Adopting a four-day work week in the public sector could have a significant economic impact. As the government's share of GDP grows, so does the financial burden on taxpayers.
Today, the public sector accounts for one in six workers in the UK, the highest proportion since 2012. Taxes currently account for 37% of GDP, with government accounting for a whopping 45% of GDP.
In addition, a four-day week could increase the financial burden on the taxpayer. With public sector workers being paid more for less work, this model is unsustainable given the current state of the UK economy.
Often the financial implications of reduced working hours and teleworking are overlooked. Although these practices can improve work-life balance and mental health, they can also lead to reduced performance and productivity.
However, contrary to what the public sector claims, the data suggest that shorter working weeks may actually reduce productivity. This discrepancy highlights the need for more comprehensive studies of the impact of reduced working hours on output.
 The Growing Divide between Public and Private Sectors
The move to a four-day work week could further isolate the public sector from the rest of society. According to a recent report by the Taxpayers' Alliance, more than 3,000 council workers now earn more than £100,000 a year, with a lucky 175 earning more than £200,000.
Part of the UK's economic stagnation is due to the wealthy elites in the public sector who, despite being paid handsomely, are doing less work. This inequality has been exacerbated by the move to a four-day week in the public sector.
By contrast, private sector innovation has traditionally compensated for government productivity. However, the growing size of government is beginning to constrain this innovation, potentially slowing economic growth.