I trust that you've read this page.
http://www.direct.gov...arylayoff/DG_10026693
Laying off staff is allowed if one's contract permits it but you've already told us that your hubbie's employer has never given him details of his employment terms (that, by the way, is unlawful what this employer has done). That doesn't get the employer off the hook, though. The employer can lay staff off but not deny the wages - unless the employee agrees. There are some industries where there is a general rule that lay-offs are allowed but I don't believe the building industry is one of them.
If you hubbie wants to up the anti, next week if this happens he could just say 'no'. The employer then either has to pay him or declare redundancy - that must include the minimum redundancy plus notice. Notice should be a minimum of three weeks pay (one week for each full year of employment).
Doesn't sound like a good employer to be working for to me.
Just something to think about.