Historic employment rights bill becomes law
This week marked a historic moment in Parliament. The Employment Rights Bill passed and became law. It brings long overdue changes to workplace rights and updates employment law for the modern economy.
The Act ends exploitative zero hours contracts and fire and rehire practices. It introduces day one rights to paternity, parental and bereavement leave. It strengthens statutory sick pay and sets up a new Fair Work Agency to enforce the rules and stop bad employers undercutting good ones.
These changes offer more security, clearer rights and better protection at work. They also matter to employers who already do the right thing and want a level playing field.
The new funding and protections will start to take effect from April 2026. By then, millions of workers across the UK will benefit from stronger sick pay and family leave rights. Other measures will follow in line with the government’s delivery timetable.
We know these reforms work best when business and workers move forward together so the government worked closely with trade unions and employers to get this legislation right.
The government will also protect these rights properly. The new Fair Work Agency will help enforce the law and make sure everyone plays by the same rules to stop rogue employers gaining an unfair advantage.
The Act also strengthens protection from sexual harassment, introduces Equality Menopause Action Plans and improves rights for pregnant workers. These are practical changes that reflect real working lives.
Employment Minister Kate Dearden said: “This is a historic moment that will make working life fairer, more secure and better for millions of people across the UK.”
Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle said the Bill brings employment rights into the 21st century and that the work now turns to implementation. That work will be done in partnership with workers, employers and trade unions.
This law supports good jobs, fair pay and a stronger economy. We want growth that lasts and this is how you deliver it.
