I’m delighted that Labour’s Employment Rights Bill has now gained Royal Assent and become the Employment Rights Act, following a lengthy back-and-forth with the House of Lords.
As the former Employment Rights Minister, this is a proud moment: the biggest upgrade to workers’ rights in a generation.
The new law delivers day-one sick pay and paternity leave, stronger protections for pregnant women and new mothers, and major new unfair dismissal rights after six months in a job. It will make a real difference for millions across England, Scotland and Wales.
And there’s more to come by April 2026. Labour promised to make work fairer and more secure — and we’re delivering.