Overview

• The Employment Rights Bill includes provisions requiring employers to protect workers from third-party harassment, raising concerns about free speech in venues like pubs and universities.
• Lord Young of Acton is leading efforts to amend the Bill, arguing that its broad language could force businesses to police conversations and stifle public debate.
• Critics warn the Bill may have unintended consequences, such as restricting casual discussions or controversial opinions in public spaces.
• Business groups, including the British Chambers of Commerce, have expressed concerns about increased legal and administrative burdens on employers under the proposed rules.
• The House of Lords is set to review and potentially amend the Bill after the Easter recess, with its final form still under legislative debate.