BRITAIN'S largest private sector union, Amicus, has called on businesses to be flexible in working time and payment of the congestion charge for employees who rely on their car to carry out their jobs.

Amicus wants the deals that have already been agreed, for example in parts of the NHS, to be extended to businesses in the capital. Executives say this will result in ordinary employees and not just company bosses having the charges paid.

Unions are also calling for employees to have more flexible working hours to help them work around the congestion charging periods. A spokesman said: 'If employers are willing to be flexible with working times around the congestion charge hours, then not only will it ease congestion but it will allow better access to jobs for people with caring responsibilities who don't fit in to a normal 'nine to five' employment pattern.'

Amicus London regional secretary Nanette Cormack added: 'Amicus in London wants to see this scheme succeed, but in order for it to stand a chance it must not have too big an impact on business and vital services in London. By adopting this type of approach to funding vital staff who rely on cars for conducting their business, London employers will aid the reduction of congestion and assist their staff both with flexible hours and those who need to use cars in the capital for business.'