VOICE OF BUSINESS Employment Rights Bill progresses through parliament

The UK Employment Rights Bill is progressing through Parliament and includes several significant reforms aimed at modernising employment law under the government's Plan to Make Work Pay initiative.

Ahead of the committee stage of the Employment Rights Bill starting in the House of Lords, Jane Gratton, Deputy Director of Public Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce said:

“This is a critical stage in the process and the window of opportunity to get the right balance in the Employment Rights Bill is fast closing.

“The legislation will usher in a seismic shift in the rules governing the relationship between businesses and their staff.

While both sides are well-aligned on the intention of the Bill – to create fair, harmonious and productive workplaces – there are several major proposals which are deeply worrying for employers.

“Planned changes to dismissal rules, trade union access and ballot thresholds and zero hours contracts, for example, are some of the critical areas that need to be revisited in the parliamentary process.

“The government must continue to positively engage with business and remain open to changes. Only then can it ensure this legislation is proportionate, affordable and right for both firms and their employees.”

Support for businesses

Do you need support in preparing your business for the proposed changes? Join us for an important online briefing on The Employment Rights Bill on 15/07/2025 09:30 - 10:30.

We are delighted to be joined by Claire Brook, Partner, Aaron & Partners who will clarify the current legal position, proposed changes and next steps in the process.

We are also delighted to welcome Jane Gratton, Deputy Director Public Policy at British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) who will explain how BCC advocate on behalf of businesses and the key amendments that have been requested to the Bill during its progress through parliament.

changes to dismissal rules, trade union access and ballot thresholds and zero hours contracts, for example, are some of the critical areas that need to be revisited in the parliamentary process."