The Conservative and Liberal Democrat parties have faced criticism for allegedly attempting to weaken the workers’ rights bill. The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has accused opposition party members in the House of Lords of introducing changes that could undermine Labour’s efforts to safeguard employees from oppressive employers.
This significant legislation, led by Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, was a central element of Labour’s election campaign. It aims to eradicate exploitative zero-hour contracts, prohibit employers from using agency staff to replace dismissed workers, and provide bereavement leave to expectant parents who experience a pregnancy loss before 24 weeks.
However, the FBU has raised concerns that the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats have proposed amendments seeking to eliminate guaranteed working hours, remove protections against unfair dismissal, and weaken the right to strike.
Members of Parliament will have the opportunity to reject these amendments when the bill returns to the Commons in September. The process of voting on amendments between the two Houses, known as “ping-pong,” will continue until a consensus is reached.
FBU General Secretary Steve Wright has urged Keir Starmer to reject all the amendments, cautioning that any concessions to the Lords would have dire consequences for Labour. Wright criticized the unelected peers for attempting to derail efforts to outlaw exploitative practices and protect workers’ rights, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling the promises made to voters.
The Employment Rights Bill, a popular policy under Starmer’s leadership, has garnered significant voter support. Wright emphasized the necessity of scrapping the Tory and Lib Dem amendments, describing them as a covert attempt to maintain anti-trade union laws.
The Liberal Democrats responded by expressing disappointment at Labour’s rejection of their proposals to support carers and whistleblowers. They highlighted concerns that parts of Labour’s hurried bill could negatively impact workers in small businesses and family farms. The party affirmed its overall support for the bill while emphasizing the importance of holding the government accountable and striving to enhance the legislation collaboratively.