Thank you for contacting me about modern employment practices.
Fairness in the workplace is a priority for the Government, from the job application process, to equal pay for equal work, and working conditions.
Ministers have already banned exclusivity clauses in zero hours contracts and upgraded workers’ rights as recommended by the Taylor Review. Looking ahead, a new single enforcement body will crack down on any employer abuse of low-paid and gig economy workers. The body will also ensure workers' right to request a more predictable contract and other reasonable protections. More broadly, the flexible labour market gives our businesses a competitive advantage internationally and works for the majority of the population. However, new business models are changing working practices and I welcome that the Government intends to strengthen day one employment rights and increase the productivity of businesses. Delivering on the Government’s 2019 manifesto commitment, around 2.2 million more people will soon have the right to request flexible working. Furthermore, the Government will also introduce a day one right to one week’s unpaid leave for carers balancing a job with caring responsibilities.
Ultimately, the Taylor Review recommendations are complex, and I am glad that the Government has engaged with stakeholders. When parliamentary time will allow, legislative measures will address both the Taylor Review and the changing flexible work market that continues to develop beyond the pandemic. Any legislative reforms to employment framework need to be fully informed by stakeholder engagement and scrutiny. Therefore, Ministers have consulted in detail and have carefully considered responses.
I am aware of one-sided flexibility where some employers misuse flexible working arrangements, creating an unpredictability in working hours, income insecurity and a reluctance among workers to assert basic employment rights. As you may be aware, the Low Pay Commission published proposals, and the Government has carried out a consultation, to address this issue. The feedback is currently being reviewed; I will monitor this issue closely.
I note your frustration over the exclusion of the Employment Bill from the Queen’s Speech 2022. A significant backlog of legislation to be passed was created by the pandemic, but I have been assured that the Government will reform our employment framework when Parliamentary time allows it. In the meantime, it will continue to support business, protect jobs and build a high wage economy.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.
