The UK Government has unveiled plans to reform flexible working laws amid changes in people's working habits over the last few years.

The reforms would give workers the right to ask for flexible working from their first day on the job.

Current laws dictate that workers must wait 26 weeks before seeking flexible working arrangements.

The Government is also interested in introducing laws making it easier for people on low incomes to get a second job.

The Department for Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy said that employers would have to discuss "alternative options" before rejecting a request for flexible working.

It added that this didn't just include working from home, but also job-sharing, flextime, and staggered hours.

The plans would allow employees to make two flexible working requests in any 12-month period and require managers to respond within two months (lowered from three).

The Government also said it planned on removing "exclusivity clause restrictions" for workers on £123 or less a week, allowing these workers to take on more than one job.

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Flexible working proposals praised by the TUC and CIPD

The Trade Union Congress (TUC), which represents 48 affiliated unions across the UK, praised the move, saying it would help keep "mums in work" and close the gender pay gap.

However, TUC general secretary, Frances O'Grady, added: "But we'd like the government to go much further to ensure that flexible work now becomes the norm.

"Ministers must change the law so that every job advert makes clear what kind of flexible working is available in that role. And they should give workers the legal right to work flexibly from their first day in a job - not just the right to ask."

The CIPD, a body of human resources professionals, also praised the move, saying it is "more inclusive."

Adding that the plans would "improve access to flexible jobs for many people. Older workers, those with caring responsibilities and people with health conditions are among those who will particularly benefit."