When does collective consultation end?

Collective consultation ends once it is formally completed, either because the parties agree on all relevant issues, or because agreement proves impossible. Employment conciliation service Acas says that “as long as there has been genuine consultation with a view to reaching agreement, an employer can end the consultation” but that this should only be done “when the employer can demonstrate that they have listened and responded to the views and suggestions raised”.

In other words, collective consultation should not end just because 30/45 days have expired. If genuine issues remain outstanding, it must continue.