Keir Starmer has praised a new law aimed at enhancing workers’ rights for those who have worked tirelessly throughout the year to keep the country functioning. In an article for The Mirror, the Prime Minister highlighted a series of new measures, including the right to sick pay from the first day of illness, as a step towards modernizing the world of work.
The Employment Rights Bill, which had been deadlocked for months, finally received royal assent on Thursday after the Lords relented earlier in the week. This means that many of the provisions will officially become law starting in April 2026.
Reflecting on this significant development, Mr. Starmer emphasized that the economy and well-being of the country are not solely dependent on a select few but on a diverse range of workers, including cleaners, carers, nurses, engineers, shop workers, drivers, builders, bar tenders, teachers, teaching assistants, technicians, and cooks. He stressed the importance of respecting all workers and acknowledging their valuable contributions, a principle enshrined in the new legislation.
MPs in the Commons celebrated on Thursday as Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle confirmed that the Employment Rights Bill had received royal assent, marking the final step in the legislative process. Angela Rayner, who led the Bill in government, described the event as historic and a testament to the collective efforts of the Labour movement in prioritizing the interests of working people.
The newly enacted law introduces a range of workers’ rights, such as the entitlement to paternity leave from day one of employment and sick pay from the onset of illness. Additionally, it prohibits exploitative zero hours contracts and puts an end to ‘fire and rehire’ practices that allow employers to dismiss workers and rehire them on inferior terms.
The Department for Business and Trade estimates that over 15 million workers will benefit from the various provisions of the new law. Furthermore, the introduction of day one rights will enable an additional 32,000 fathers and partners annually to take paternity leave.
TUC general secretary Paul Nowak hailed the Employment Rights Act as a milestone for millions of workers, representing a substantial advancement in workers’ rights. He emphasized that these rights, long advocated for by unions and workers, bring the UK closer to international standards and mark a significant improvement in workplace protections.