Keir Starmer has praised a newly enacted law aimed at enhancing workers’ rights for individuals who have dedicated themselves throughout the year to keeping the country operational.
In an article for The Mirror, the Prime Minister highlighted a series of fresh measures, including the entitlement to sick pay from the onset of illness, as a means to modernize the realm of employment.
The Employment Rights Bill, which recently obtained royal assent following the resolution of a parliamentary impasse, is set to enforce numerous provisions starting from April 2026.
Emphasizing the significance of this development, Mr. Starmer emphasized that the economy and essential services are not solely sustained by a privileged minority but also by a diverse range of workers who have toiled tirelessly. He underscored the importance of respecting all workers and acknowledging their invaluable contributions, a principle embodied in the new legislation.
Amid cheers from MPs in the Commons on the eve of the Christmas recess, the Employment Rights Bill was officially ratified, marking the conclusion of the legislative process as both the Commons and Lords reached a consensus.
Angela Rayner, the former Deputy PM instrumental in advancing the Bill within the government, hailed this momentous occasion as a triumph for the entire Labour movement against opposition attempts to impede progress. The legislation heralds a transformational shift towards securing landmark rights for 15 million workers, marking an end to an era characterized by low pay and job insecurity.
The comprehensive legislation introduces a host of new protections for workers, including immediate entitlement to paternity leave upon commencing a job and sick pay coverage from the first day of illness. It also outlaws exploitative zero-hours contracts and the contentious ‘fire and rehire’ practices that enable employers to dismiss workers and rehire them on less favorable terms.
The Department for Business and Trade estimates that over 15 million workers stand to benefit from the various provisions in the new law. Additionally, the introduction of day one rights will facilitate an additional 32,000 fathers and partners each year in taking paternity leave.
Paul Nowak, the general secretary of TUC, lauded the Employment Rights Act as a pivotal moment for millions of workers, representing a substantial advancement in labor rights. The legislation addresses critical issues such as the prohibition of exploitative contracts, safeguarding workers from harassment, and ensuring universal access to sick pay.
He further emphasized that these rights, long advocated by unions and workers, mark a significant step towards aligning the UK with European standards on workers’ rights, signifying a move towards a more equitable and inclusive labor landscape.