The Labour Party has recently announced a comprehensive plan to reform employment rights in the UK. This initiative, part of Labour’s ‘New Deal for Working People,’ aims to address unfair work practices and enhance workers’ rights. Below is a summary of the proposed changes in the new Employment Rights Bill:
1. Immediate Worker Protections:
Labour plans to grant parental leave, sick pay, and protection from unfair dismissal from the first day of employment, though certain conditions apply during probation periods.
2. A ban on Zero-Hour Contracts:
The proposed bill seeks to eliminate zero-hour contracts, requiring employers to offer contracts that reflect actual working hours, thereby providing greater job stability.
3. Ending ‘Fire and Rehire’ Tactics:
The Labour Party intends to end the practice of dismissing employees only to rehire them under less favourable terms, advocating for stronger legal protections against this practice.
4. Revisions to Statutory Sick Pay:
Proposed changes include removing the lower earnings threshold and the waiting period for Statutory Sick Pay (SSP), expanding access to this benefit for a broader range of workers, especially those in lower-paid or part-time positions.
5. Default Flexible Working:
Labour aims to make flexible working the standard option from the outset, with employers needing to provide reasons for any refusal. This reflects the growing emphasis on work-life balance.
6. Enhanced Protections for New Mothers:
The bill proposes to make it unlawful to dismiss a woman within six months of returning from maternity leave, except in specific circumstances, thus increasing job security for new mothers.
7. Creation of a Fair Work Agency:
A new Fair Work Agency has been proposed to ensure compliance with these enhanced rights and address any violations, promoting fairness in the workplace.
8. Fair Pay in Adult Social Care:
Recognising the undervaluation of adult social care workers, Labour plans to introduce a Fair Pay Agreement to set minimum pay standards in this sector.
9. Repeal of Minimum Service Levels Law:
The bill proposes to repeal laws requiring minimum service levels during strikes, which Labour argues limit workers’ rights to industrial action.
10. Streamlining Union Recognition:
This proposal involves simplifying the process for trade union recognition, potentially increasing union presence and influence within workplaces.
Implications for Employers and Employees
These reforms, if enacted, will significantly reshape the UK workplace, ensuring job security, fairness, and work-life balance. Employers will need to revise company policies, update employment contracts, and adjust human resources practices.
For employees, these changes promise enhanced protections and benefits. It’s crucial to understand these new regulations and their potential impact on various employment situations.
Employment Solicitors – Contact Us
As the proposed legislation makes its way through Parliament, staying informed is essential for both businesses and workers/employees. At Ronald Fletcher Baker LLP, we can assist both employees and employers in navigating the changes in the employment landscape.
If you have any queries, please contact the Employment Law Team at employmentteam@rfblegal.co.uk
Aysha Anderson
Trainee Solicitor
