Government shelves predictable T&Cs framework in favour of stronger contractual rights
The Government has reportedly decided not to implement new laws on requesting a predictable working pattern, and will instead introduce a more robust right to a contract that reflects regular working hours.
Background
The Workers (Predictable Terms and Conditions) Act 2023 (the Act), which was expected to be enacted this autumn, has been dropped by the Labour government. The Act, which was passed in September 2023 under the last Government, would have created a statutory framework for certain workers to use to request a more predictable working pattern.
However, the Government has now said it has no plans to bring the Act into force. Instead, it is focusing on the creation of a new right for employees to receive contracts reflecting the number of hours they regularly work. This aligns with the government's broader objective of modernising workplace rights.
This decision forms part of Labour’s commitment to “make work pay”, as highlighted in the King's Speech in July 2024. The Act had previously been seen as a significant step in providing employees with greater stability in their working hours. However, it is now considered redundant in light of the new approach the government intends to pursue, details of which are yet to be confirmed.
Next steps
Labour has previously committed to introducing legislation within its first 100 days in government. It remains to be seen whether the right to a contract that reflects working hours will be one of the rights included in the Employment Rights Bill, which is expected to be published in draft form by mid-October.
For more information or advice, please contact Jessica Scott-Dye in our Employment team on 0117 314 5652, or complete the form below.