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Ratings: ★★★★★ (5/5)
Genre: Law / Labor Law / Employment Law / Sri Lankan Legal Literature

Book Review:
The Contract of Employment by S.R. De Silva is an indispensable resource for anyone seeking to understand the legal foundations of employment relationships in Sri Lanka. As Monograph No. 4 in The Employers' Federation of Ceylon's series, this revised 2017 edition brings together the author's deep expertise in labor law with a clear and practical approach to a fundamental area of employment practice.

The book begins by tracing the origins of employment contract law and examining the philosophical underpinnings of the common law system as it applies to employment. De Silva then delves into the critical distinction between a ''servant'' (employee) and an ''independent contractor''—a distinction that carries significant legal implications for liability, benefits, and statutory protections. The discussion of the ''control test'' and its evolution is particularly valuable, offering readers a nuanced understanding of how courts determine employment status.

Written with the clarity and precision that characterize De Silva's work, this monograph is accessible to legal practitioners while remaining highly practical for HR professionals and business owners. It serves as both a reference guide and a teaching tool, making complex legal concepts understandable without sacrificing depth.

For anyone navigating employment law in Sri Lanka—whether drafting contracts, handling disputes, or seeking compliance—this book is essential reading. Highly recommended.