Overview

• The national living wage has risen by 6.7% to £12.21 per hour, benefiting millions of workers across the UK.
• Labour’s Employment Rights Bill, currently in the House of Lords, seeks to ban zero-hours contracts, expand sick pay, and guarantee regular working hours.
• Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner argues the reforms will improve productivity, enhance job security, and stimulate local economies through increased consumer spending.
• Business groups and the Office for Budget Responsibility have raised concerns about potential negative economic impacts, including job losses and increased costs for businesses.
• Reports suggest the government may adjust the bill, potentially relaxing the zero-hours contract ban for seasonal workers, as discussions continue in Parliament.