The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has called on the government to maintain its commitment to the Employment Rights Bill, which aims to overhaul workers’ rights. Key provisions proposed in the bill include protections against unfair dismissal and a prohibition on “exploitative” zero-hours contracts. TUC General Secretary Paul Novak expressed confidence in the government’s ability to fully implement the bill, stating his message to the government is to “stay on course.”
However, concerns have been raised regarding potential delays in the bill’s implementation. Some Labour Party members fear that economic pressures might lead the government to postpone progress on the legislation as a concession to business interests. This concern is echoed by union representatives, including those in the right-leaning factions of the trade union movement.
Mr. Novak emphasized that the bill is crucial for millions of individuals in insecure, low-paid jobs, arguing that well-paid and secure employment benefits not only workers but also ethical employers and the broader UK economy. Senior union officials at the TUC have noted anxieties that the bill may be diluted following significant personnel changes within the government.
USDAW, a union representing over 300,000 workers, has highlighted a particular amendment added by the House of Lords that could alter the bill’s stipulations concerning guaranteed hours. Instead of a requirement for employers to provide guaranteed hours, the amendment proposes that employees could only request them, which unions view as a potential weakening of worker rights.
Furthermore, the Federation of Small Businesses has pointed out that leadership changes, including the resignation of Angela Rayner and the dismissal of Employment Minister Justin Madders, could open avenues for modifying the bill. Their polling indicates that a significant majority of employers express concerns about the upcoming changes, suggesting they perceive these adjustments as overwhelming.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cq65l5epl3eo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss