DP works in factory, and is paid piecework. Has been this way since he started 10+ years ago. He starts at 6 and works until his quota has been filled, which changes daily, although he gets a weeks quota in advance. This means sometimes he finishes at 12, sometimes not till 4, and everything inbetween depending on breakdowns/absences etc. Usually he is home around 3, but winter is the busy period so its usually nearer 4 at these times, and Summer is quieter times when he can be finished for 1/2. Accordingly his pay differs from week to week depending on quota. DP has came home today saying that there is suggestion that his employers are wanting employees to be contracted to work set hours from 6 until 4, but still paid piecework, as other departments (which are on contracted hours/hourly wage) have complained that his dept are 'always leaving early' . Effectively once they have done their work which they will be paid (piece work) for, if they are finished before 4 they can then be moved into other departments to help them out until finishing time. But if he is describing it correctly they would not be paid for this work as they are not paid hourly wage and are only paid piecework for the work type that they currently do. Common sense tells me that this surely can't be legal (the working extra for nothing) but can someone with more knowledge come along and tell me please.