The Liberal Democrats are facing criticism for stalling a key bill aimed at improving sick pay for seven million workers. The Trades Union Congress (TUC) leader, Paul Nowak, is set to accuse the Liberal Democrats, led by Sir Ed Davey, of obstructing Labour’s Employment Rights Bill in the House of Lords, contradicting their own election promises.
During a speech at the Co-operative Party conference, Nowak will condemn both the Liberal Democrats and Conservatives for causing delays in passing crucial legislation. He emphasizes that millions of workers would benefit from the proposed reforms, including seven million individuals who are expected to receive day one sick pay starting next April. Nowak urges the Lords to support the bill, highlighting the importance of fulfilling manifesto commitments.
The bill, once it receives Royal Assent, will introduce new rights for flexible working, protection against sexual harassment, an end to fire rehire practices, the repeal of anti-union laws, and a ban on zero-hour contracts. Additionally, it will grant unions greater access to workplaces, recognition, and the ability to represent workers.
The TUC estimates that over one million people in the UK are on zero-hour contracts, with a significant number in insecure employment. Insecure work, which includes zero-hours contracts, agency, casual, and seasonal work, is prevalent across the country and detrimental to both workers and the economy. The TUC notes a substantial increase in insecure work under the Conservative government, rising by 800,000 from 2011 to 2024.
The Liberal Democrats declined to provide a comment on the matter.