Our one-year registry period, preceded by a six-month notice period, is far more lengthy than other countries', giving ample time to apply.

Many people in senior positions with three to six-month notice periods can be tempted to resign early so they don't ask their new employer to wait months before hiring them, he said.

The move by the Dabhol Power Company, 65 percent owned by Enron, starts the clock ticking on a six-month notice period before the contract is voided, during which negotiations to settle the dispute are expected.

Mr. Blamer was to start that job in January, but Sir Martin insisted on his observing a six-month notice period in his contract; Mr. Blamer started at Foote Cone on July 1.