Britain's new Labour government has introduced a comprehensive Employment Rights Bill that promises significant improvements for millions of workers. The package of measures includes enhanced sick pay and parental leave provisions, as well as restrictions on controversial employment practices like fire and rehire. This initiative, described as the most significant upgrade in workers' rights in a generation, comes just 100 days after Labour's return to power following a decisive election victory.
The 28 measures outlined in the bill have received a mixed response, with unions and business lobby groups expressing varying degrees of support. While some have praised the government for raising the minimum floor of employment rights and promoting good practices, others have criticized the rollout as rushed and poorly planned.
Key highlights of the bill include the right for workers to claim sick pay from the first day of absence, entitlement to paternity leave and unpaid parental leave from day one of employment, and protection against unfair dismissal from day one. Additionally, the bill aims to increase the likelihood of flexible working arrangements being granted and requires large employers to address gender pay gaps and support employees through menopause.
Unions have hailed the bill as a 'seismic shift' away from a low-pay, low-productivity economy, while business groups have emphasized the importance of continued engagement with both unions and businesses to ensure the legislation's success. The government plans to implement the measures in 2026 after further consultations with stakeholders.
Despite some criticism from small business representatives, the overall sentiment is one of progress and improvement in workers' rights. The government, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, is aiming to address longstanding issues in the labor market and create a fairer and more supportive environment for workers across the country.
