In a surprise move, the government has just announced a U-turn on day-one protection from unfair dismissal.
After pushback from the House of Lords resulting in delays to the Employment Rights Bill timetable, the government is now accepting a six month qualifying period for unfair dismissal.
Following amendments made by the Lords and concerns from business groups, ministers now plan to introduce the unfair dismissal right after six months instead of from day one of employment.
Other new day-one rights to sick pay and paternity leave will still go ahead as planned, in April 2026.
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