Labour's Employment Rights Bill debated

Public Affairs

Labour’s Employment Rights Bill debated

Public Affairs

Labour’s Employment Rights Bill debated

30 October 2024

The Bill aims to reform workers’ rights in the UK and covers 28 new employment reforms including introducing a new statutory probation period, ending zero-hour contracts, and ensuring workers have rights from day one.

The Bill is still in the early stages and making its way through Parliament. Last week, it was debated by MPS and Angela Rayner, Deputy PM, affirmed the Government’s position.

Given the complex and varying impacts of the Bill, the Government is launching a series of consultations to gather views from affected industries and individuals to help guide its formation. They have launched four consultations, with others coming in due course.

Kevin Hollinrake, Shadow Secretary for Business and Trade highlighted the possible impacts of the Bill on businesses, particularly on small to medium enterprises.

He said the proposed measures could be “existential” on their operations and hiring practices. He suggested small businesses should be completely exempt from the Bill. These sentiments were shared amongst numerous members of the debate.

We have been in talks with members to understand the impact of the Bill on the sector and individual businesses. If you would like to speak about this issue further or share views, please contact our Head of Policy and Public Affairs, Eilidh Wilson (eilidh.wilson@ppa.co.uk)

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