6 March 2008: The Drinks Are On Us

A Japanese company has announced plans to get its staff drinking at the company's expense.

Managers at Japan General Estate Co who supervise 20 or more people will have a budget of around 1,500 pounds a month to take them out drinking. Managers with fewer than 20 workers will have 1,000 pounds a month.

The company says the move is intended to help with staff communication.

Japan General Estate is renown for its other unorthodox work policies, such as paying extra to employees who do not smoke.

SaintFM asked SHG’s Social Development Planner Ann Muir if drinks on the company will be part of the new employment legislation proposed for St. Helena . She said it wouldn't be required but that wouldn't stop employers from introducing it on a voluntary basis.