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Union Leaders Set Expectations as TUC Congress Opens in Brighton
Twelve months ago, the Trade Union Congress (TUC) held its annual gathering in Liverpool, where Labour was poised for a significant shift in power. At that time, Keir Starmer encouraged union leaders with a rallying call to keep their focus on the ultimate prize.
After lengthy negotiations around Labour’s initiatives for worker rights—dubbed a new deal for working people—union representatives were optimistic about the future.
As this year’s TUC congress kicks off in Brighton, the political climate has shifted dramatically, compelling unions to remind the government of its commitments.
Key Employment Bill on the Horizon
Angela Rayner, the Deputy Prime Minister, has vowed to introduce an employment bill that will honor key elements of the new deal within the first 100 days of Labour’s governance. This timeline is set to expire in mid-October, intensifying the pressure on the government.
As this deadline approaches, business leaders are raising concerns about various aspects of the proposed regulations, particularly those aimed at prohibiting “exploitative” zero-hours contracts, banning fire-and-rehire tactics, and eliminating the three-day waiting period for sick pay eligibility.
Concerns from Business Leaders
Last week, the Institute of Directors (IoD) indicated that the plans to bolster worker rights, along with warnings from the Chancellor about potential tax hikes, have contributed to a decline in confidence among its members.
Anna Leach, the chief economist at the IoD, expressed that recent developments regarding employment rights and tax increases have impacted the business landscape in the UK. “With a busy autumn ahead, we urge the government to ensure that policy design is thoughtfully crafted for long-term stability, fostering an environment conducive to business confidence and investment,” she stated.
Such sentiments have made unions apprehensive; while they have faith in Rayner and expect the fulfillment of the government’s worker rights agenda, they recognize the importance of precise implementation. Regarding zero-hours contracts, for instance, the promise in Labour’s advocacy document assures workers the right to a contract that mirrors their regularly worked hours, based on a 12-week reference period.
Key Decisions Awaited
However, as noted by Nye Cominetti from the Resolution Foundation, clarity is still lacking on whether this new right would guarantee a minimum number of hours for every worker or only those already working consistently, thereby formalizing their current agreements.
Cominetti highlighted that the decisions surrounding eligibility and hours would not only affect worker security but also determine the flexibility available to employers, especially in sectors with variable demand, like hospitality.
Navigating Trade-Offs in Policy Implementation
The impending arrival of Labour’s government—marking the first in over a decade—might bring jubilation tempered by concerns over party leader Rachel Reeves’s stringent approach to public finances. Union leaders, including Unite’s Sharon Graham, are expected to continue pressing for more substantial investment to revitalize strained public services.
Despite some potential dissent, most union leaders are likely to publicly support the new government, although there is a shared apprehension within parts of the left regarding whether the caution that facilitated Labour’s ascent will hinder it from enacting promised reforms once in office.
With Reeves’s inaugural budget forthcoming and the employment bill expected soon, the TUC congress in Brighton signals a new political chapter, highlighting a renewed influence of unions in shaping policies at the government level.
Source
www.theguardian.com