A Scottish MP has tabled a massive 14 bills in the Commons in a challenge to the Tory government on workers rights and on providing security for benefit claimants and refugees.
SNP MP Chris Stephens said he was presenting the bills on Corporate Manslaughter, Health and Safety legislation and a raft of social security reforms in the interests of his Glasgow South West constituents.
Stephens, a former trade union official, is presenting a ten minute rule bill to tighten the Corporate Manslaughter Act which would make companies liable for deaths of employees due to company negligence.
In addition Stephens has taken the opportunity to table another 13 bills for consideration by the Commons.
They range from reforms on workers' rights to full employment and changes to Health and Safety legislation.
He is also demanding a guaranteed minimum standard of accommodation for asylum seekers, no evictions without an independent tribunal hearing and a right for refugees to work if they have to wait more than six months for their claims to be processed.
On benefits Stephens’ bills would abolish the bedroom tax, allow Universal Credit claimants the right to refuse zero hours contracts, limit sanctions and prevent evictions for claimants.
Stephens admitted his radical manifesto had little chance of becoming law but added: “I want to present a vision that represents the interests of my constituents and would be of benefit to them.”
He added: “Obviously I want to raise these issues to support campaigners who are working for change around workers rights, social security and asylum seekers’ rights.”
“There is a chance that they will be debated in parliament and that will test the government as they have to respond to published bills.”
Stephens said he was confident of support from colleagues and other opposition MPs.
He said: “I would imagine that I will be getting support from Labour MPs who back what we are trying to do here in helping the most vulnerable and dealing with inequality and dignity at work and making sure that those who see refuge are treated with decency and respect.”
