well this is a law thread
the leading cases are Murray v Foyle Meats
http://www.thompsons.law.co.uk/ltext/l0510005.htm
and Burrell v Safeway
you look at what they do - not what the label on the contract says
however it doesnt look as tho you want the law applicable in this case as you are ready to negotiate. sensible girl
from what you say it would be quite easy for your employer to declare you redundant and pay you off ....[ job doesnt now exist ]
[ I was in the opposite where my employer was telling us over fifties how idle we were ( with a view to getting us to work harder ) and I said in exasperation - why dont you fire us all and get in youngsters whom you can pay peanuts ?
and he said no of course not - you olds can do all sorts of unbelievable things the youngsters cant and wont.
and I said o in that case can we have a pay rise please ?
and he said in a vexed fashion - no of course you cant what the hell are you talking about ?
I was out within 24 mo ]
anyway good luck