Angela Rayner has hinted that some elements of her long-awaited review of workers’ rights could be delayed, which would be a setback for union leaders.
At a key meeting at the Cabinet Office in Whitehall, the Deputy Prime Minister informed trade union representatives and business lobbyists that “not everything” initially proposed will be included in the upcoming employment bill.
The government remains on track to improve workers’ rights by October 12, meeting its commitment to deliver within the first 100 days of taking office. However, uncertainty remains as to which aspects will be included in legislation in the coming months.
The ambitious set of proposals includes protection against unfair dismissal from day one, the abolition of zero-hours contracts, a ban on ‘fire and rehire’ tactics and an increase in the minimum wage.
A Labor insider commented: “The bill is just one piece of the puzzle, and the Deputy Prime Minister was clear that we need to get this right – some of the policies are quite complex.”
It has been suggested that the reforms could be implemented in as many as four phases as officials navigate what has been described as the most comprehensive transformation of workers’ rights in a generation.
A source close to Ms Rayner confirmed that she will be committed to ensuring the reforms are both effective and workable, acknowledging that “with only 100 days until the implementation of the Employment Act, not everything can be included.”
Paul Nowak, secretary general of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), who was present at the meeting, confirmed that ministers reiterated their plan to consult companies and introduce the employment law within the 100-day timeframe. He dismissed concerns that the agenda is being watered down, saying: “Some would prefer this agenda to just disappear. It will not go away – that was made very clear today.”
Another participant at the meeting suggested that “more thorny issues could be postponed” due to concerns about the economic impact, while much of the legislation is still in “draft mode”. They highlighted the significant complexity involved in certain areas, such as employment status, which require a lot of work.
Labor has assured concerned business leaders that the more controversial changes will be consulted before becoming law. However, these commitments do not prevent them from being included in the bill.
Ms. Rayner noted that “this first meeting of its kind has ushered in a new era of partnership that will benefit everyone across the country who strives to build a better life.”
Justin Madders, the Employment Rights Minister, added: “We are moving quickly on the bill, it will be introduced within the first 100 days, and it is fantastic to be coming together to share insights that will help us ensure that it achieves what we set out to do.”
A government spokesperson declined to specify what measures would be included in the bill, but confirmed it would deliver on policies that require primary legislation.