Angela Rayner has indicated that some elements of her planned reform of workers’ rights could be delayed, in a setback for union leaders.
At a key meeting at the Cabinet Office in Whitehall, the deputy prime minister told union and business lobby representatives that “not everything” initially proposed would be included in the next employment bill.
The government remains on track to strengthen workers’ rights by October 12, fulfilling its promise to do so within its first 100 days in office. However, uncertainty remains over what aspects of the legislation will be enacted in the coming months.
The ambitious package of proposals includes protection against unfair dismissal from day one, abolishing fixed-hour contracts, banning “fire and rehire” tactics, and increasing the minimum wage.
“The bill is just one piece of the puzzle and the deputy prime minister has been clear that we need to get this right – some of the policies are very complex,” said a Labour insider.
Some have suggested that the reforms be implemented in four phases, as civil servants navigate what has been described as the most sweeping shift in workers’ rights in a generation.
A source close to Ms Rainer stressed that she was committed to ensuring that the reforms were effective and workable, acknowledging that “since there are only 100 days left until the labour bill is presented, not everything can be included.”
Paul Novak, general secretary of the Trades Union Congress, who attended the meeting, confirmed that ministers had confirmed their plan to consult with businesses and deliver the employment bill within the 100-day timeframe. He dismissed concerns about the agenda being watered down, saying: “Some would prefer it to go away. It won’t go away – that was made crystal clear today.”
Another participant in the meeting noted that “more complex issues may be delayed” due to concerns about the economic impact, with much of the legislation still in “draft” status. They highlighted the significant complexity of some areas, such as the employment situation, which would require extensive work.
Labour has assured worried business leaders that the most controversial changes will be subject to consultation before becoming law. However, those commitments do not prevent them being included in the bill.
“This first-of-its-kind meeting has launched a new era of partnership that will benefit everyone across the country who seek to build a better life,” commented Ms. Rainer.
“We are moving quickly on the bill, which will be delivered in the first 100 days, and it is great to come together to share ideas that will help us ensure we achieve what we set out to achieve,” said Justin Madders, Minister for Employment Rights.
A government spokesman declined to specify what measures would be included in the bill, but stressed that the bill would work to achieve policies that require primary legislation.
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