Annual leave entitlement refused by agency during furlough

letsbeappalling

I started a two year fixed contract with an employment agency on the 13th Feb 20 and was fortunate enough to receive furlough @80% from the 23rs March through to 1st July when I was allowed to return to work at the same job. However, I have not accrued any holiday entitlement during the 13 weeks that I was furloughed and I am unsure if this is correct or legal before I challenge the decision? I work a 30 hour week and have not taken any annual leave as yet. What are my rights in this situation? TIA

Illusionary

Holiday entitlement should continue to accrue as usual during a period of furlough. An employer can direct that employees take holiday at times that they specify, including during furlough, but they have to provide sufficient notice (generally, twice the length of the holiday to be taken) and pay at full rate.