UKH calls for consultation on Employment Rights Bill

UKHospitality has called for an ongoing consultation of the government’s Employment Rights Bill to avoid “unintended negative consequences”, saying that changes are not without cost. 

While the trade body welcomes the government’s recognition of the importance of employment flexibility, it believes that protecting access to zero hours contracts is “essential” for hospitality workers and businesses.

UKH has stated that it supports the Bill’s aim to tackle any exploitative use of zero hours contracts, but that an opt-out for those that don’t want a fixed hours contract should be implemented. 

Plans for day one rights include pragmatic recognition of the need to make sure the job is a good fit for both employee and employer, and probation periods are an important way to allow this assessment.

Kate Nicholls, CEO of UKH, said: “One of our primary messages during a long period of dialogue with Labour in opposition and in government was to recognise the importance of flexibility to both workers and businesses, and I’m pleased it has done that today.

“However, these changes are not without cost. That’s why the government should take its time to get the details right, through close consultation with businesses to avoid unintended consequences.”

She added: “Rushing to introduce measures too quickly would be the wrong thing to do and would increase the chances of inflicting damage to sectors like hospitality, an employer of 3.5 million people and a provider of some of the most flexible roles in the economy.”

According to UKH, zero hours contracts are the desired contract for 90% of people on them, as they sought out the flexibility it offers to accommodate their lives as working parents, carers and students.