Responding to the Government voting down the Lords Amendments to the Employment Rights Bill, Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive:
“Retailers will be very disappointed that Government has voted down the practical amendments laid down by the House of Lords, which would have maintained protections for workers while removing some of the risk of the Bill backfiring.
“Half of the three million people employed in retail work part-time. From those seeking flexibility to balance other commitments such as being a parent or carer, to long-serving workers, who have worked their way up to management roles with little or no qualifications. The flexibility of these jobs is also what supports so many people getting back into the workplace after a period of absence.
“Government yesterday claimed to be a “listening” and “acting” Government, so it is time it does just that to avoid the unintended consequences of the Bill in its current form. The OBR has said it will likely have “material, and probably net negative, economic impacts on employment, prices and productivity.” A BRC survey revealed over half of retail HR Directors (52%) said the Bill would result in job losses and 61% said it would reduce flexibility of available roles.
“The Lords proposed pragmatic changes that would have helped to protect these roles. But Government has decided to make a rod for its own back. At a time when over one-fifth of the workforce is economically inactive and sick leave is at a record high, this will undermine its plans to get Britain working. How can this be achieved if there are fewer flexible jobs available?
“The vast majority of retailers are responsible businesses, committed to delivering secure and sustainable work. The Bill’s aim to crack down on unscrupulous employers who do not treat their employees fairly is crucial, but the Government also needs to ensure it doesn’t punish responsible businesses and protects part time employment opportunities.
“As the consultation process on implementation begins this Autumn, the industry will continue to push to make this Bill fit for purpose.”
