Ahead of the committee stage of the Employment Rights Bill starting in the House of Lords, Jane Gratton, Deputy Director of Public Policy at the British Chambers of Commerce said:  

“This is a critical stage in the process and the window of opportunity to get the right balance in the Employment Rights Bill is fast closing. 

“The legislation will usher in a seismic shift in the rules governing the relationship between businesses and their staff. While both sides are well-aligned on the intention of the Bill – to create fair, harmonious and productive workplaces – there are several major proposals which are deeply worrying for employers.   

“The risk of unintended consequences, that could limit employment opportunities and economic growth, remains high.  

“Planned changes to dismissal rules, trade union access and ballot thresholds and zero hours contracts, for example, are some of the critical areas that need to be revisited in the parliamentary process.   

“The government must continue to positively engage with business and remain open to changes. Only then can it ensure this legislation is proportionate, affordable and right for both firms and their employees.”