UK Employment Overhaul Clears Final Hurdle After Upper House Approval

A major overhaul of employment rights is set to become law after receiving backing from the House of Lords, marking one of the most significant changes to workplace protections in years.

The bill, which has already passed through the House of Commons, strengthens rights for workers across a range of areas, including job security, pay protections, and conditions of employment. With Lords approval secured, the legislation is now expected to receive royal assent in the coming days.

Ministers said the new law will modernize the labor market and provide greater certainty for employees, particularly those in insecure or low-paid work. The reforms aim to close loopholes that critics say have allowed some employers to sidestep basic protections.

Business groups have voiced mixed reactions, with some warning that increased regulation could add costs and complexity for employers. Supporters of the bill argue that clearer rules will improve fairness and productivity while reducing exploitation.

Trade unions welcomed the move, describing it as a long-overdue step toward strengthening workers’ rights and rebalancing power in the workplace. They said the legislation would offer millions of workers improved safeguards and clearer legal protections.

The government said guidance for employers and employees will be issued ahead of the law coming into force, with implementation expected to be phased in over the coming months.

Author: M.J