The government’s Employment Rights Bill has successfully made it through the House of Lords and is set to become law.
The new Bill will see changes in contracts, pay and job security.
A Double-Edged Sword
What supporters are saying:
It has long been argued that the current Bill no longer reflects modern working life. The new Bill will help address this by giving workers more protections.
Peter Kyle, the business secretary, said: “This landmark legislation, now soon to be in law, will drag Britain’s outdated employment laws into the 21st century and offer dignity and respect to millions more in the workplace.”
What critics are saying:
Critics are concerned that the Bill puts a heavy weight of support for the employee, but makes life disproportionately more difficult for employers. This could lead to less hiring and greater unemployment as a result.
Andrew Griffith, the shadow business secretary, said: “It will pile costs on to small businesses, freeze hiring, and ultimately leave young people and jobseekers paying the price.”
What the new Bill outlines:
A ban on “fire and rehires”
Clamp down on zero-hour contracts
Changes to Trade Union Rights
Changes to Statutory Sick Pay
Earlier access to unfair dismissal protection New paternal and parental leave from day one
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