Peers who are out of touch with voters are going against the public’s wishes by supporting measures that weaken workers’ rights, according to the TUC leader. Paul Nowak, the General Secretary of the TUC, criticized members of the Liberal Democrats and Conservatives in the House of Lords for stalling the progress of the Employment Rights Bill. This legislation aims to prohibit exploitative zero-hours contracts, ensure compensation for canceled shifts, and prevent unfair dismissals from day one.
However, the bill is facing delays due to proposed amendments by Conservative and Liberal Democrat peers, including one that could allow employers to avoid providing guaranteed hours contracts. Another amendment suggests a six-month qualifying period before workers are safeguarded from unfair dismissals.
According to TUC analysis, over 2 million workers would lose protection against unfair dismissals if these amendments are approved. Nowak condemned the actions of the Tory and Lib Dem peers, stating that their decisions favor detrimental practices by employers.
He emphasized that banning zero-hours contracts and safeguarding workers from unjust dismissals are essential safeguards that the majority of people, regardless of political affiliation, support. Nowak urged the peers to prioritize the well-being of workers over partisan interests.
Recent polling by Hope Not Hate revealed strong public support for protecting workers from unfair dismissals from day one of employment, with a majority of both Tory and Lib Dem supporters in favor of this measure. Additionally, a significant percentage of respondents backed the proposal to mandate employers to offer guaranteed-hours contracts to zero-hours workers after 12 weeks of consistent employment.
The TUC leader called on peers to align with the public sentiment and allow the government to enact new protections for millions of workers.
