The first aim of this chapter is to describe the current system of Finnish labour market regulations. It is of vital importance to know how the system works, since this is reflected in the positions of the different participants in the formulating process, which is analysed in the next chapter. The second aim is to take a scientific approach and show the importance of working hours in social research. This is shown by an overview of how the concept has been approached in economic and sociological research. The chapter concludes with an evaluation of the basic dilemmas the participants in the committee and working group are facing in trying to reach consensus on the issue.