Peers who seem disconnected from public sentiment are being criticized for supporting employers over workers’ rights reforms, according to the TUC leader. TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak accused Conservative and Liberal Democrat peers of stalling the progress of the Employment Rights Bill by proposing changes that would weaken protections for millions of workers.
The upcoming House of Lords session on Tuesday will address the Bill, designed to outlaw exploitative zero-hours contracts, provide compensation for canceled shifts, and prevent unfair dismissals from day one. However, the Bill’s advancement is hindered by amendments put forth by Conservative and Liberal Democrat peers, one of which could allow employers to avoid offering guaranteed hours contracts to workers.
Another proposed amendment suggests implementing a six-month qualifying period before workers are safeguarded from unjust dismissals. TUC analysis indicates that over 2 million workers could lose protection against unfair dismissal if these amendments are approved.
Nowak criticized the peers for backing zero-hours contracts and depriving workers of essential protections, stating that such actions are contrary to the desires of the majority of the public, including voters from the Conservative and Liberal Democrat parties. He urged the peers to step aside to enable the government to enact new rights for workers.
A recent survey by Hope Not Hate revealed overwhelming support for protecting workers from unfair dismissal starting on their first day of employment, with significant backing from both Conservative and Liberal Democrat supporters. Additionally, a large majority of respondents favored legislation requiring employers to offer zero-hours contract workers a guaranteed-hours contract after 12 weeks, including strong support from Tory and Liberal Democrat voters.
