Labour MPs react to Starmer’s workers rights U-turn
Labour MPs have expressed their discontent regarding Sir Keir Starmer’s decision to dilute workers’ rights provisions within the Employment Rights Bill. Critics accuse the party leadership of breaching their manifesto promises, particularly the commitment to allow employees the right to file for unfair dismissal on their very first day of work, reports BritPanorama.
This backlash followed a crucial meeting that took place last night between government ministers and business leaders, during which it was confirmed that the initial pledge was being abandoned. The revised legislation will now limit the timeframe for lodging claims from two years to just six months, significantly altering the protections originally envisioned.
Labour backbenchers voiced their frustrations openly. MP Andy McDonald stated, “We went into the election with that manifesto promise to bring about day one rights, including the right not to be unfairly dismissed. This is a big shock and a massive disappointment.” His sentiment was echoed by former Employment Minister Justin Madders, who labelled the changes a “manifesto breach.”
Despite the criticism, Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson defended the adjustments, asserting that the Employment Rights Bill remains a significant advancement for workers’ rights. “The Employment Rights Bill represents the biggest upgrade to workers’ rights in a generation,” she remarked, highlighting the involvement of trade unions in discussions surrounding the Bill.
The Bill is currently undergoing parliamentary procedures, facing scrutiny as it navigates between the House of Commons and the House of Lords. This follows the unions and employer groups’ private negotiations to reach a compromise on several contentious amendments. Major union Unite condemned the changes as detrimental to workers’ rights, with General Secretary Sharon Graham stating that the legislation is now “a shell of its former self.”
As the Labour leadership balances criticisms from its own MPs, a significant aspect lies in ensuring that the rights promised to workers remain a priority. With the imminent return of parliamentary sessions, the implications of this U-turn could resonate throughout the party and the electorate ahead of future elections.
The evolving landscape of workers’ rights in the UK reflects ongoing tensions between party commitments and the practicalities of governance, challenging Labour to navigate an increasingly complex political environment.
