On 17th July 2024, the King’s Speech set out laws that the new government intends to bring through parliament. There were 35 bills including a new Employment Rights Bill, the detail of which could have a significant impact on recruitment supply.
What will the Bill cover?
The King’s Speech only provides an overview of intended legislation, not the actual details or consultation processes. However what we do know is that it is intended to implement, the ‘Plan to Make Work Pay’. This was detailed pre-election and includes:
The published notes do not specifically address merging worker and employment status. However, as it was included within the ‘Plan to Make Work Pay’, we may have to wait for the details. It could be that this is an area that requires a more detailed consultation with the industry.
Time scales & next steps
The government has indicated that the Bill will be introduced within the first 100 days, so by mid-October. As we all know in recruitment, something being introduced, and actually in place, are two very different things.
Concerning the actual publication of the first draft, one would imagine that government lawyers are already working on this. However, until the debate on the King’s Speech is concluded, it is unlikely that we have the detail of when we can expect this.
At Lawspeed, and through our work with ARC (the Association of Recruitment Consultancies), we have regular contact with relevant government bodies. We will be reviewing the new rules and their impact on recruitment as soon as published.
For more information, or rapid advice on any recruitment or employment law matter, please contact us on 01273 236 236 or email us at info@lawspeed.com.
