I've been asked to opt out of the EU Working times directive in order to secure a new job... is this legal?

Reality check:

I get into a lot of trouble when I start to practice law and medicine. To the best of my knowledge, nobody here is admitted to the bar, either. If they were, they probably wouldn't give you advice, for free, over the Internet.

I know that you know all this, but I have an irrational desire to protect you, and I need the 2 points.

not if there making you its your choise to sign out, although it realy isn't a big deal unless its written into your contract to do loads of hours.

I signed out a long while ago and all it means is that if i want to i can work more than 39 hrs a week.

Check your contract and ask if you have to sign it or if its volentery
yes, totally legal.

I did and get an extra 500 pounds in my pocket each month for the overtime I do. Totally worth it.
WHEREVER U CAN GREATE U R LIFE SO DEPANSE U R POWER G2C9SB10
It's perfectly fine. Just means you're willing to work more than 48 hours per week if it's necessary - doesn't mean you have to.

It's virtually a condition of every contract I sign myself up for.

Hope this helps...
Yes it is but they cannot force you or use it as a reason to not give you the job. Be careful sound like they want to to live there not just work there!
It is more common than you would think, judging from this link: http://www.tensor.co.uk/english/working-...
There is a move to remove the right to opt out, which is widely practised in EU countries, but so far this has not been done and most workers would rather be in a position to earn more money. Presumably your employers propose to compensate you for this concession? There should be something in your contract.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/45358...