Show Notes
What will Labour's new employment legislation bring for workers and trade unions? In this insightful episode, Carolyn Jones Vice President of the Institute of Employment Rights is joined by Lord John Hendy KC and Professor Keith Ewing to discuss the imperative need for comprehensive reforms in UK labour laws. Reflecting on changes since the Thatcher era, they explore critical issues such as sectoral collective bargaining, the establishment of a Ministry of Labour, and alignment with international legal standards. Key topics include the Labour Party’s new Employment Rights Bill, the impact of weakened trade unions, the controversial nine-month probation period, and specific cases like the P&O Ferries dismissals. The discussion emphasises the importance of effective enforcement mechanisms, protecting workers' rights, and the political dynamics influencing these legislative changes. Listeners are encouraged to engage in the debate over these pressing labour law reforms.
About The Institute for Employment Rights The IER aims to develop modern employment laws and offers publications, briefings, and conference papers. Supporters can subscribe and receive newsletters at www.ier.org.uk.
Episode Chapters: 00:00 The Employment Rights Bill: A New Era For Workers? 00:37 Introduction 03:01 Why UK Labour Law Needs Revision 05:45 Four Pillars of Robust Employment Rights 07:41 A Ministry of Labour Still Needed 11:50 Sectoral Collective Bargaining 17:15 Collective Action, Collective Rights 20:02 P&O Ferries: A Case Study 22:48 Legal Impunity For Businesses 27:29 Day One Rights Vs Probation Periods 30:28 Amending The Employment Rights Bill 32:07 Conclusion
The IER podcast is supported by Thompsons Solicitors. For Thompsons resources and advice on Trade Union law visit thompsonstradeunion.law. This podcast is produced for IER by Creative Kin. To find out more, visit creativekin.co.uk. Recorded at Creative Kin's London studios. Studio Producer and Editor: Jason Caffrey Theme Music: Daniel Jorgensen
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