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Employment Rights Bill - Update 🚨

Summarising the Latest Developments

Andrew Collier
Andrew Collier HR Adviser
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The Employment Rights Bill continues to progress through Parliament, with the Government and MPs proposing around 250 amendments ahead of its next legislative stage.
 
Many employers had hoped for a softening of the Bill’s measures following recent consultations. However, most proposed amendments focus on strengthening worker protections rather than easing employer obligations.

Key Proposed Amendments to Date Include:
·       Extending restrictions on zero-hours contracts to cover agency workers.
·       Setting Statutory Sick Pay at 80% of normal weekly earnings from day one of absence, where 80% would otherwise be less than the lower earnings limit.
·       Introducing a legal definition of 'umbrella companies', ensuring they are regulated as employment businesses.
·       Doubling potential financial penalties for breaches of collective redundancy rules.
·       Granting the new Fair Work Agency greater powers than originally proposed to investigate and take civil action against employers, including issuing fines for pay-related breaches.

Notably, no amendments currently suggest a rollback of Labour’s key manifesto commitments, such as day one rights, fire and rehire tactics, and increased trade union rights. 
 
Here to Help
With a lot for employers to take on board, businesses should stay informed as the bill moves forward. WorkSmarter will continue to keep you up to date in the coming weeks and months as the legislation is drafted and progresses through parliament. 

To help you prepare for the likely changes ahead and avoid complications, WorkSmarter’s HR Partners can offer customers bespoke advice and guidance about the new legislation in relation to their specific business. 

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