A significant advancement in workers’ rights is on the verge of being enacted into law following the resolution of the House of Lords deadlock on the proposed measures.
The Employment Rights Bill, encompassing provisions for immediate sick pay entitlement and a prohibition on abusive zero hours contracts, faced opposition from Conservative and Liberal Democrat peers. However, the upper chamber approved the legislation on Tuesday, clearing the path for royal assent and the implementation of worker protections anticipated to commence in April.
In response, Keir Starmer expressed triumph, stating, “We have achieved a momentous enhancement of workers’ rights. Today, our initiatives have been ratified by Parliament and are soon to be enshrined in law. This marks a significant triumph for laborers nationwide.”
Former Deputy PM Angela Rayner, the driving force behind the groundbreaking policy during her tenure, hailed it as the most substantial advancement in workplace rights in a generation under the Labour government. Business Secretary Peter Kyle emphasized that the bill would modernize Britain’s antiquated labor laws, fostering respect and dignity for millions in the workforce.
The bill incorporates various measures, including the prohibition of ‘fire and rehire’ practices enabling employers to dismiss and reemploy workers on inferior terms. It also addresses exploitative zero hours contracts by guaranteeing hours, providing reasonable shift notice, and compensating for short-notice cancellations.
Additionally, the legislation will revoke anti-strike laws imposed by the Tories and introduce a novel unpaid bereavement leave entitlement, encompassing pregnancy loss, allowing employees to take time off for mourning.
TUC general secretary Paul Nowak lauded the bill’s passage through both Houses of Parliament, predicting improved job security, pay, and working conditions for employees. He emphasized the importance of swift and comprehensive implementation to ensure workers promptly benefit from the legislation without exploitative loopholes.
Christina McAnea, general secretary of Unison, asserted that conscientious employers have nothing to fear from the new law, highlighting the significant positive impact it will have on employment rights. She underscored the need to restore a fair balance of power for workers, commending Unison’s pivotal role in shaping the legislation.
The bill’s approval coincides with a recent study revealing a rising trend of workers turning to precarious job opportunities, such as delivery services, due to financial constraints. The research, conducted by the Demos think-tank and Joseph Rowntree Foundation, highlighted the challenges of uncertain work hours, erratic pay, and emotional strains faced by individuals in such roles.
Demos is urging the government to monitor the number of non-employee workers, often on casual contracts, termed “Limb workers,” within official statistics. They also advocate for extending parental leave and pay access to these insecure employees.
Polly Curtis, CEO at Demos, emphasized the necessity for policymakers to address the financial vulnerabilities of marginalized populations, urging a deeper consideration of those adversely impacted by the current economic landscape.