Over one million people on zero-hours contracts will now benefit from guaranteed hours policies, providing them with greater job security and financial stability.
Livingston MP Gregor Poynton has hailed the UK Government’s Employment Rights Bill as a landmark step forward for workers’ rights in Scotland.
Speaking in the House of Commons, Mr Poynton highlighted the significance of the reforms, which he said will bring tangible improvements to the lives of working people in his constituency and beyond.
He said: “Just this weekend, at one of my regular coffee mornings, a constituent, Phil, urged me to do more to promote the benefits of this Bill. That conversation reinforced how vital this legislation is to people in Livingston and across Scotland.”
The new legislation represents the most significant enhancement of employment protections in decades, tackling exploitative zero-hours contracts, enhancing statutory sick pay, and strengthening the powers of the Fair Work Agency to hold bad employers to account.
READ MORE: West Lothian school teacher is running to help other women suffering domestic abuse
Over one million people on zero-hours contracts will now benefit from guaranteed hours policies, providing them with greater job security and financial stability.
Mr Poynton, a member of the House of Commons Business and Trade Select Committee, noted that evidence presented to Parliament demonstrated the unfairness of current employment practices, such as shifts being cancelled at 24 hours’ notice with no compensation.
“This Bill ensures that families who rely on zero-hours contracts can plan their finances with greater certainty,” he added.
“This Bill is not just pro-worker; it is pro-business too. By improving employment relations, reducing industrial disputes, and putting money back in people’s pockets, it will help drive productivity and economic growth.
READ MORE: Beecraigs Country Park re-opens for first time since January storm
“This legislation signals a real shift in direction, ensuring that hard work is rewarded with fair pay, decent conditions, and security at work.
“The Labour government may still be in its early days, but we are already delivering for workers, businesses, and communities across Scotland.”
Don’t miss the latest news from the West Lothian Courier. Sign up to our free newsletter here.
