The Queen’s omission of measures to improve workers’ rights has sparked anger from unions.
It was hoped that an employment law would provide flexible labor rights, protection against pregnancy discrimination and the right for employees to keep all tips.
Plans for the law were first announced by the government in 2019.
TUC boss Frances O’Grady accused the government of “turning its back on workers”, adding that she “would see bad bosses celebrate”.
“No employment law means vital rights promised by ministers – such as flexible working by default, fair tips and protection from discrimination based on pregnancy – risk being given up forever,” she said.
“And it means doing nothing about the scourge of unsafe work and ending exploitative practices like zero-hour contracts and firing and rehiring.
“But by deferring the Employment Act, ministers have sent a signal that they are happy when dubious employers ruthlessly disregard workers’ rights.”
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A proposed Employment Bill was first announced in the Queen’s speech in December 2019
There were concerns that workers’ rights could be diluted after the UK leaves the EU, and concerns about the treatment of workers in the gig economy had also prompted calls for reform.
When first announced, the bill had promised:
- the creation of a single enforcement body that offers workers better protection
- Ensure that any tips left to employees go to them in full
- All workers would have the right to demand a more predictable contract
- protection against dismissal would be extended to prevent discrimination based on pregnancy and maternity
- Parents are allowed to take extended leave for newborn care
- Entitlement to one week’s leave for unpaid carers
- Subject to consultation, the bill also proposed making flexible working the standard unless employers have good reasons not to do so.
Neil Carberry, chief executive of the Recruitment & Employment Confederation, said it was “incredibly disappointing that the Government has decided to once again throw the Employment Bill in the long grass”.
“It has now been two and a half years since the Employment Act was first promised and five years since the Taylor Review of Modern Labor Practices – the government needs to show its commitment to this issue and get this legislation out as soon as possible.”
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