British Council Tokyo staff have started industrial action against forced retirement at the age of 65, in what is believed to be the first strike in the 75 years since the British Council opened in Japan.
On 4th March staff staged a one-day strike at the British Council in Tokyo. The centre was picketed, and striking staff were joined by students collecting signatures for a petition, fellow union members with giant banners and pennants, and teachers from other unions.
According to the strikers the Council’s global Equality Diversity and Inclusion policy makes clear that, as a public body, it follows UK law, unless local law is stronger. Since the UK Equality Act 2010, which outlawed forced retirement, the staff and their Union have argued the practice should not happen anywhere in the British Council globally. The Council’s office in Japan, however, maintains a policy of mandatory retirement at 65.
The National Union of General Workers Tokyo Nambu, which represents the striking staff, began challenging this practice in 2012. Indeed, according to the Union, Council managers admitted five years ago, that there was no justification for retaining the forced retirement policy.
“There have been plenty of warm words, and much talk of reviews … of EDI team meetings and assessment frameworks, but up to now, no firm commitment and no time frame for abolition of the practice,” according to Union members.
The union is now calling on the British Council to immediately sign a collective agreement to protect one member who turns 65 in May this year.
Asked for comment the British Council responded that they have been operating in full compliance with all Japanese laws since 1953.
It made no mention of UK law but stated: “In the last few decades, in response to Japan’s rapidly ageing population and declining birthrate, the Japanese government is encouraging organisations to review and adjust relevant policies.”
They added that their office in Japan “is currently in the process of reviewing its retirement policy. We have been maintaining ongoing discussions with colleagues to achieve a mutual understanding on this matter and are committed to making changes that are consultative with all colleagues.”
Meanwhile, Tokyo teachers and other staff say that it is 11 years since the Union first raised the issue with the Council and their patience is running out.
