Department for Business Energy and industrial strategy
Following the Queens Speech 2022 the Department of Energy and Industrial Strategy has issued press release highlighting the actions it says the government has taken "to support workers and build a high skilled, high productivity, high wage economy". The key measures highlighted were:
The increase of the national minimum wage and national living wage (NLW) in April 2022. The government also named and shamed 208 employers in December 2021 who failed to pay the National Minimum Wage.
An extension of the ban on exclusivity clauses for all workers whose guaranteed weekly income is below the Lower Earnings Limit.
A commitment to produce a statutory code of practice on fire and rehire.
Closing a loophole which sees agency workers employed on cheaper rates and the introduction of the right to receive a written statement of terms on day one for all workers
Recognising the importance of flexible working, including a consultation on making flexible working the default that closed on 1 December 2021 and to which the government response is awaited.
The introduction of a legal right to two weeks' paid bereavement leave for those who have lost a child.
Cautionary note
There are some critics though who feel the proposals were watered down and key Employment changes are taking a back seat. There was no mention of the Employment Bill 2019 which was placed on hold.
One of the key areas to look out for is the Statutory Code of Practice for dismissal and re engagement which will prevent unethical employers from firing and re hiring.
Employment Practice is an evolving area and it is paramount businesses are taking steps to ensure compliance and keeping abreast of the changes a failure could result in an Employment Tribunal claim being brought and at worse being named and shamed.
For any guidance and ensuring you are complying please contact Quest helpline on 01455 852028.
