UK: Employment Rights Bill published

The long-awaited Employment Rights Bill has been published, emphasizing individual employment rights, but does little on collective rights. It still represents a significant shift in employment policy after 14 years of Conservative governments

Why it matters: The bill’s focus on individual rights could shape workplace policies and employee protections.

Details: At nearly 180 pages, the bill was quickly produced to meet the government’s deadline of 100 days in office, with many provisions not taking effect until 2026. Extensive consultations with stakeholders are expected as the bill progresses through parliament.

The big picture: The absence of measures on trade union or collective rights has drawn criticism from various quarters, including left-wing commentators and labor advocates.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Legislation and supporting material on the U.K. government’s website. 

Lewis Silkin LLP commentary on the Bill. 

Tom Hayes personal commentary on the Bill’s contents

Morning Star, British Communist party critique on the Employment Rights Bill