The Labour Party, founded 125 years ago to defend the rights of workers, is now on the verge of delivering one of the most significant reforms to UK employment law since the 1970s.

In its 2024 election campaign, Labour pledged to reverse decades of Conservative restrictions on workers’ rights and trade union freedoms. That promise is now close to being fulfilled through the Employment Rights Bill, first launched by Angela Rayner in October. After approval by the House of Commons in March, the bill has now passed its third reading in the House of Lords following 13 hours of debate.

Although some amendments remain, the government insists the bill will deliver the most sweeping upgrade to workers’ protections in half a century.

Read More

The leader of the UK’s largest trade union has warned the government that watering down the Employment Rights Bill would be a “huge mistake” for workers.

Christina McAnea, General Secretary of Unison, said she is deeply concerned that the government may no longer be committed to delivering the full package of promised workers’ rights reforms. Her warning follows the departure of Angela Rayner and a major cabinet reshuffle, which saw key ministers supportive of the bill moved or replaced. Other trade unions have echoed these concerns.

The Employment Rights Bill—expected to become law in the coming weeks—represents one of the most significant changes to employment law in decades. Proposals include stronger protection from unfair dismissal, a ban on exploitative zero-hours contracts, and new rights for flexible working.

Read More