British Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner announced on Sunday that the government plans to introduce new legislation aimed at enhancing workers' rights next month. The government is attempting to address the concerns of both trade unions, which traditionally support the governing Labour Party, and business leaders, who are wary of certain proposed changes. The Employment Rights Bill will encompass measures such as banning zero-hour contracts, which currently affect approximately one million workers in Britain who are employed under contracts that do not guarantee a minimum number of working hours and only pay for the hours actually worked. Additionally, the bill will prohibit the practice of 'fire and rehire.' The Labour Party has also committed to ensuring that parental leave, sick pay, and protection from unfair dismissal are available from the first day of employment, although probation periods will still be in effect.
"We'll be presenting the legislation next month," Rayner stated in an interview with the BBC. "Workers will see improved rights, the most significant advancements in workers' rights in a generation." The government has pledged to enact this legislation within 100 days of the July national election. However, some business representatives express uncertainty about the government's intentions.
Rayner made these remarks at the outset of the Labour Party's annual conference in Liverpool, where ministers faced scrutiny over the decision to restrict winter fuel payments to the elderly and donations for clothing and hospitality. Earlier this week, Rayner and Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds convened with business leaders and trade unions to discuss the termination of zero-hour contracts. This follows the Labour Party's promise to eliminate the 'one-sided' flexibility these contracts provide and ensure that workers receive reasonable notice of any changes to their shifts.
