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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National

Zero-hours contracts will be illegal in two years

  • The government's landmark Employment Rights Bill, described by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer as a significant upgrade to workers' rights, will be implemented through a phased rollout extending until 2027.
  • Key provisions, such as a ban on exploitative zero-hours contracts and 'day-one' protections against unfair dismissal, are scheduled to come into full effect in 2027.
  • Immediate changes upon the Bill's royal assent include the repeal of Conservative-era industrial action restrictions and new protections for striking workers.
  • Further reforms, including enhanced sick pay, 'day-one' paternity leave, and measures to end 'fire and rehire' practices, are slated for April and October 2026.
  • The phased approach aims to give businesses ample time to prepare, a move welcomed by business groups, while union leaders urge earlier adoption of the changes and the Conservative opposition criticises the delay.

IN FULL

Ban on ‘exploitative’ zero-hours contracts to come into effect in 2027

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