In its election manifesto, the Labour party has been clear that it intends to significantly reform multiple areas of employment law. A new Employment Bill is expected to be announced at the King's Speech next week. However at the current time, relatively little is known of the detail of the new government's plans.
Employers who are anticipating changes will want to know the timescales for policies to be announced. It may be helpful to take note of the key dates below.
- 4 July 2024 to 9 July 2024 - New MPs go to Westminster, receive briefings on their roles and responsibilities from their parties and House of Commons staff.
- 9 July 2024 - House of Commons meets for first time. MPs summoned to House of Lords. Royal Commissioners appointed by King will direct MPs to elect their Speaker.
- After the Speaker, longest continuously serving MPs, government ministers, shadow spokespeople and senior MPs swear-in (this will take place over a number of days).
- 17 July 2024 (approximately 10.30am) - formal opening of Parliament and King's Speech. The King's Speech will be the first time the new government sets out its legislative agenda, so following this we will have a clearer idea of key employment law changes on the horizon.
- 17 July 2024 (2.30 pm) - the House of Commons returns to debate the King's Speech (this lasts 5-6 days).
- 18 July 2024 - Leader of the House will make first business statement. Government can start introducing Bills on this day.
- 23 July 2024 - First oral questions session takes place.
- 24 July 2024 - First session of Prime Minister's Questions (assuming the current Wednesday slot is maintained).
Webinar invitation
Partners Rebecca Fox and Nishil Patel will exploring likely post-election employment and immigration law reform at our monthly employment law webinar on 17 July at 10.00am. Sign up to join this interactive session.
For more information or advice, please contact Jessica Scott-Dye in our Employment team on 0117 314 5652, or complete the form below.