Labour urged to stand firm on workers' rights bill as poll reveals overwhelming public support

Labour is facing pressure to advocate for its proposed expansion of workers' rights despite resistance from the Conservative and Reform Party. A significant poll by the TUC, comprising 21,000 responses, shows overwhelming public support for measures such as banning zero-hours contracts and implementing day-one sick pay. This bipartisan support, particularly from traditionally conservative voters, highlights Labour's potential mandate to enact these changes. However, concerns within Labour about alienating business leaders may hinder stronger promotion of the bill, which includes enhanced parental leave and flexible working rights.

The TUC poll found that 72% of UK voters support banning zero-hours contracts, including two-thirds of those who voted Conservative or Reform in the 2024 general election.

Anneliese Midgley, Labour MP for Knowsley, said the party should not hold back: "We shouldn't be shy in talking about improving employment rights-it is one of our best weapons in the fight against the populist right."

Read at Business Matters