King’s Speech: New UK employment rights bill unveiled

The plans for the UK’s new Government were laid out on Wednesday, 17 July, in the King’s Speech in the House of Lords.

Among a range of new measures being introduced was the Employment Rights Bill, aimed at delivering on the Government’s New Deal for Working People.

Ruth Wilkinson, Head of Policy and Public Affairs at IOSH, expressed her approval of the new measures.

Wilkinson said: “The Government’s move to strengthen workers’ rights is music to my ears, as it will provide hope and reassurance for many millions of people.”

Wilkinson highlighted the importance of banning zero-hours contracts: “Such contracts make workers increasingly vulnerable in terms of their physical and mental health, as they add a huge degree of uncertainty around the duration of employment and unpredictable working hours.”

Improvements to statutory sick pay

Wilkinson also commented on the improvements to statutory sick pay, which she believes will help prevent people from returning to work too soon, potentially affecting their long-term health.

She emphasised the need for a broader focus on worker well-being and safety.

“We are keen to see a greater focus more generally on looking after people at work, making organisations accountable on their human rights obligations, tackling insecure work, advancing flexible working, strengthening safety standards and improving health and wellbeing in the workplace.

“This is the best recipe for boosting productivity and sustained economic growth,” Wilkinson added.

Fire Brigades Union welcomes changes

Matt Wrack, general secretary of the Fire Brigades Union (FBU), also responded positively to the King’s Speech.

Wrack said: “The steadfast commitment to start delivery of the New Deal for Working People within 100 days will significantly improve the lives of workers after 14 years of vicious anti-trade union legislation from the Tories.”

Wrack appreciated the urgency to deliver on Labour’s plan to repeal the Minimum Service Levels Act, which restricts key workers like firefighters from striking.

“The stated urgency to deliver on Labour’s plan to repeal the Minimum Service Levels Act, which effectively bans firefighters and other key workers going on strike to defend their jobs and wages, as part of that package is particularly welcome,” Wrack said.

Living wage increase and its impact

The commitment to increase the living wage as part of the New Deal for Working People was another point welcomed by Wrack.

He stated: “The commitment to increase the living wage as part of the New Deal for Working People is also hugely welcome and must be reflected in pay offers made to firefighters and other public sector workers after a decade and a half of severe wage restraint.”

Wrack also supported the banning of zero-hours contracts and tackling fire and rehire practices.