On October 10, 2024, the UK Labour government unveiled a comprehensive package of new workers' rights, marking the most significant change to employment law in a generation. The Employment Rights Bill aims to end controversial practices such as fire-and-rehire and strengthen sick pay, responding to long-standing demands from trade unions and concerns from business leaders.
The proposed legislation includes new rights for parental leave, immediate sick pay from the start of employment, and a ban on zero-hours contracts, which leave workers without guaranteed hours. However, some pre-election promises, such as a legal right for employees to ignore work demands outside of office hours, are still under consultation.
This legislative initiative is a key part of Prime Minister Keir Starmer's agenda following his election victory in July 2024, aimed at stabilizing the workforce and preventing industrial action that has disrupted services in recent years. Business Minister Jonathan Reynolds emphasized that the reforms are designed to enhance productivity and raise living standards for workers and businesses alike.
As the bill progresses through Parliament, it will be closely monitored by both trade unions and business leaders, who have expressed concerns regarding the implications of the new regulations.