The Central Arbitration Committee has asked that all applications and complaints are submitted electronically in the first instance. GOV.UK confirms filings should be sent to enquiries@cac.gov.uk, with the notice last updated on 26 March 2026. (gov.uk)
This electronic‑first approach applies to the CAC’s principal jurisdictions, including statutory trade union recognition under Schedule A1 to the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992, information and consultation cases under the 2004 Regulations, and specified European Works Council matters where jurisdiction remains. (assets.publishing.service.gov.uk)
For information and consultation disputes, GOV.UK guidance directs parties to select the correct application or complaint and use the appropriate form. Contact details appear on each form and submissions may be made by post or email, but the latest notice requests email as the first step to speed intake. (gov.uk)
For trade union recognition, the CAC’s official Schedule A1 application form instructs applicants to submit the completed form to enquiries@cac.gov.uk. The form also highlights admissibility thresholds-at least 10% membership in the proposed bargaining unit and likely majority support-and requires applicants to copy the form and supporting documents to the employer. (assets.publishing.service.gov.uk)
After receipt, the CAC acknowledges the filing, identifies the panel and appoints a case manager. Case management can include requests for further information, an informal meeting, or arranging a formal hearing, after which the CAC issues a decision. (gov.uk)
Where confidentiality is in dispute in information and consultation cases, the CAC can determine whether information should be kept confidential or disclosed. GOV.UK notes relevant routes under Regulations 25(6) and 26(2), with appeals on points of law to the Employment Appeal Tribunal. (gov.uk)
Post‑Brexit, European Works Council complaints are tightly defined. GOV.UK confirms the CAC generally has jurisdiction only where the negotiation process to establish an EWC or information and consultation procedure began before 1 January 2021, and complaints lodged before that date may continue to be determined. (gov.uk)