2024 has been a pivotal year for employment law and trade union activity in the UK. The election of the new Labour government brought fresh hopes for workers’ rights. Their manifesto promised significant reforms to improve conditions for employees and empower trade unions. Here, we review the key developments, including the new Employment Act and its proposed amendments, and assess how far they have delivered on their commitments.
The New Labour Government
The Labour Party’s victory in the general election was hailed as a turning point for workers. The party ran on a platform of fairness, job security, and empowerment for employees. Early actions by the government focused on reversing some of the anti-union measures introduced by previous administrations. There were high expectations for transformative change.
The Employment Act 2024
One of the government’s flagship policies was the introduction of the Employment Act. This comprehensive legislation aimed to tackle issues like insecure work, low pay, and lack of workplace protections. Key provisions included:
- A ban on zero-hours contracts, except in specific circumstances.
- A requirement for all workers to have predictable contracts.
- Increased statutory sick pay and holiday entitlements.
- Strengthened rights for workers to join and organise in trade unions.
These measures were welcomed by unions and advocacy groups. However, employers raised concerns about the increased costs and administrative burdens.
Proposed Amendments
The Employment Act also introduced a framework for further reforms. Proposed amendments currently under consultation include:
- Mandatory recognition of trade unions in workplaces with over 50 employees.
- Greater protections for gig economy workers, building on recent court rulings.
- Expanded parental leave provisions, including paid leave for carers.
While these proposals signal a strong commitment to workers’ rights, their implementation faces challenges. Some employers and political opponents argue that the changes could harm business competitiveness.
Delivering on Promises
The Labour government has made progress, but significant gaps remain. Trade unions welcomed the repeal of laws that restricted industrial action.
However, delays in implementing parts of the Employment Act have caused frustration.
Workers in the gig economy have seen incremental improvements. Recent court decisions, such as the Uber ruling, have set important precedents.
Yet, unions argue that legislative backing is needed to secure long-term change.
Trade Union Activity
2024 also witnessed increased union activity. The cost-of-living crisis and high inflation led to widespread industrial action.
Strikes were held in key sectors, including health, education, and transport. Unions played a critical role in negotiating improved pay deals and working conditions.
Solidarity supported the strikes, standing with workers in their fight for fair pay and conditions.
The union’s commitment to advocacy reinforced the importance of collective action in achieving tangible results for members.
The government’s pledge to strengthen collective bargaining has seen mixed results.
The new requirement for mandatory negotiations in large workplaces is a step forward.
But unions have called for more robust enforcement mechanisms.
Solidarity Union: Punching Above Its Weight
Solidarity, though a smaller union, has made a significant impact in campaigning for workers’ rights and providing representation at meetings for its members.
The union’s Technical Advantage Group has been utilising AI to expand into videos and assist with research this year.
This innovative approach has enhanced its ability to advocate for members effectively. AI will remain a key area of development in the coming year.
Solidarity has also built alliances with other groups to promote specific campaigns. Most recently, the union partnered with the Facebook group “Great UK Products You Can Buy” to promote its “Buy British at Xmas” campaign.
Strengthening such partnerships will be a priority in the next year, helping to amplify its message and achieve greater results for workers.
Solidarity was also pleased to see legislation on the fair allocation of tips, which it and other unions had campaigned for.
This important change ensures that workers in sectors like hospitality receive the tips they earn, promoting fairness and transparency.
Looking Ahead
The Labour government’s first year has laid important groundwork for change.
The Employment Act and related measures demonstrate a clear intent to prioritise workers’ rights.
However, the road ahead remains complex. Balancing the needs of businesses and workers will require careful navigation.
Unions and workers must remain vigilant. Continued advocacy is essential to ensure the government delivers on its promises.
The next year will be crucial in determining whether 2024 marks a true turning point for employment law and rights for workers in the UK.
Patrick Harrington
General Secretary
Solidarity Trade Union
