A significant advancement in workers’ rights is on the verge of being enacted following the resolution of the House of Lords’ impasse over the proposals. The Employment Rights Bill, encompassing immediate sick pay entitlements and a prohibition on exploitative zero hours contracts, faced resistance from Tory and Liberal Democrats peers. However, the upper chamber approved the legislation on Tuesday, clearing the path for royal assent and the implementation of worker protections scheduled to commence in April.
In response, Keir Starmer expressed satisfaction, hailing it as the most substantial enhancement of workers’ rights in a generation. The plans successfully passed through Parliament and are poised to become law soon, marking a significant triumph for workers nationwide.
Former Deputy PM Angela Rayner, who championed the groundbreaking initiative in government, lauded it as the most significant improvement in workplace rights in decades under the Labour government. Business Secretary Peter Kyle emphasized that the bill will modernize Britain’s antiquated employment laws, providing dignity and respect to millions in the workforce.
Key provisions of the Bill include the elimination of ‘fire and rehire’ tactics permitting employers to dismiss and rehire workers on inferior terms. It will also abolish exploitative zero hours contracts by introducing rights to guaranteed hours, fair notice of shifts, and compensation for short-notice cancellations.
Additionally, the legislation will revoke anti-strike laws introduced by the Tories and introduce a new entitlement for unpaid bereavement leave, encompassing pregnancy loss, allowing workers to take time off to grieve.
TUC general secretary Paul Nowak hailed the passage of the Bill through both the Commons and Lords, asserting that workers will benefit from enhanced security, pay, and working conditions. He emphasized the importance of swift and comprehensive implementation to ensure that workers promptly experience the positive impacts of the legislation.
Unison general secretary Christina McAnea underscored that reputable employers have nothing to fear from the Bill, characterizing it as a monumental advancement in employment rights that is long overdue. The union played a pivotal role in shaping the legislation, aiming to enhance the lives of millions of individuals while closing loopholes that unscrupulous employers exploit.
The Bill’s approval coincides with recent research indicating a growing trend among workers towards insecure occupations, such as delivery services, to meet financial needs. Findings by the Demos think-tank and Joseph Rowntree Foundation reveal that such roles often entail irregular hours, unpredictable pay, and demanding emotional labor.
Furthermore, analysis of online posts, including forums dedicated to financial support, reflects concerns about the lack of a financial safety net among workers. Despite a rise in Britain’s unemployment rate to 5.1% in the months leading up to October, researchers suggest that the situation may be more dire for working individuals than official statistics indicate.
Demos is urging the government to monitor non-employee workers, particularly those on casual contracts known as “Limb workers,” as part of official data collection. The organization also calls for initiatives to expand access to parental leave and pay for these vulnerable workers.
Polly Curtis, CEO at Demos, stressed the importance of addressing the financial vulnerability faced by many individuals in Britain, urging policymakers to consider those who may not be adequately captured in standard employment figures.