The Liberal Democrats are facing criticism for stalling a significant bill aimed at benefiting seven million workers with sick pay. Paul Nowak, the head of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), is expected to accuse the party of delaying the progress of Labour’s Employment Rights Bill in the House of Lords, going against their own promises.
During a speech at the Co-operative Party conference, Nowak will condemn both the Liberal Democrats and the Conservatives for causing delays in passing crucial legislation. He will emphasize the importance of the proposed reforms, highlighting that seven million individuals are poised to receive day one sick pay starting next April.
Nowak will stress the urgency of supporting the Bill, pointing out that the public will not forgive Peers who obstruct the government from fulfilling its manifesto commitments. He will urge Liberal Democrat peers to prioritize the interests of voters and not waste time with hostile amendments.
The bill, once it receives Royal Assent, will introduce new rights for flexible working, protection against sexual harassment, the end of fire rehire practices, the repeal of anti-union laws, and a ban on zero-hour contracts. It will also grant unions enhanced access to workplaces, recognition, and representation rights.
According to TUC estimates, over a million people in the UK are on zero-hour contracts, with many more in insecure employment. Insecure work, which includes zero-hour contracts, agency, casual, and seasonal employment, has seen a significant rise under the Conservative government.
The Liberal Democrats declined to provide a comment on the matter.