In the News Teaching Activity – the government plans to improve workers’ rights (Oct 2024)

The government is planning to upgrade workers’ rights, but businesses are concerned about how their costs may rise.

The UK government’s Employment Rights Bill proposes significant reforms, including statutory sick pay and unpaid parental leave from day one of employment. Other changes include removing the two-year qualifying period for unfair dismissal protection and ensuring paternity leave from the first day. However, many reforms will be delayed for two years, with concerns over their impact on businesses. Critics argue the bill is rushed, and unions demand stronger protections. The debate continues over issues like zero-hours contracts and probation periods.

Workers' rights: Sick pay and parental leave part of major overhaul - BBC News

1. What workers’ rights measures are expected to be changed in the Employment Rights Bill?

2. Why are zero-hours contracts controversial?

3. Discuss why the measures in the Bill might push up costs to businesses and the possible consequences of this for workers.