Summary
The UK government has outlined a plan that will take two years to introduce new workplace rights. These include protections from unfair dismissal from the first day of employment and banning exploitative zero hours contracts. Some changes, like improvements to flexible working, are scheduled to come into effect in 2027 and are still under review.
Key Facts
- It will take two years for new workplace rights to be introduced, as part of the Employment Rights Bill.
- Protections from unfair dismissal from day one of employment are part of these new rights.
- A ban on exploitative zero hours contracts is also planned, but won't happen until 2027.
- The government aims to improve access to flexible working, with changes expected by 2027.
- The Bill is currently being reviewed by the House of Lords, with a goal for it to become law by autumn.
- New measures like whistleblowing protections and changes to paternity leave are set for April next year.
- A Fair Work Agency is also planned, alongside changes to sick pay and union processes.
- Business groups have expressed concerns about the potential disruption these changes could bring.
