Found: Trade, and Minister for Women and Equalities, regarding Clauses 19, 20 and 21 of the Employment Rights Bill

Found: SUBMITTED BY DEPARTMENT FOR ENERGY SECUIRTY AND NET ZERO (FLS0062) 4 Make Work Pay: Employment Rights Bill

Found: Association to the Chair, Justice and Home Affairs Committee regarding Court Reform and the Renters' Rights Bill

Found: Timeframe: The Employment Rights Bill (which will create the FWA in law) is expected to be passed in

Found: regulatory costs and an estimated £300-800m of extra costs from the implementation of the Employment Rights Bill

Found: The Employment Rights Bill potentially serves to implement further protections against forced labour

Found: the Seafarers Wages Act and those improvements are coming through, as well as the Employment Rights Bill

Found: Bidfood’s action is especially troubling, as it coincides with the progress of the Employment Rights Bill

Found: Clause 18 of the Employment Rights Bill should explicitly include Islamophobic abuse within the scope

Found: That is important because the Government have their Renters’ Rights Bill coming through Parliament.

Found: Whilst we welcome the introduction of the Employment Rights Bill, we are disappointed that it is silent

Found: We have done a lot of work on the Renters’ Rights Bill.

Found: Correspondence from the Committee to the Secretary of State for Business and Trade regarding Employment Rights Bill

Found: We have done a lot of work on the Renters’ Rights Bill.

Found: We have done a lot of work on the Renters’ Rights Bill.

Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what assessment she has made of the potential implications for her policies of her Department’s estimate that the lost output due to working age carers caring for working age sick is £37 billion.

Answered by Stephen Timms - Minister of State (Department for Work and Pensions)

This Government recognises and values the vital contribution made by carers every day in providing significant care and continuity of support to sick and disabled family and friends. Without the support they provide there would be more pressure on formal social care services, whether provided by local authorities or through other routes.

The Casey Commission, announced recently by this government, will start a national conversation about what care and support working age adults, older people, and their families should expect from adult social care, including exploring the needs of unpaid carers. Furthermore, the Government’s plans to reform and modernise the NHS will see reduced waiting times and improved care, helping people to remain in work and economically active. And the Government is reviewing the implementation of the Carer’s Leave Act, which gave employed carers a right to time off work for the first time. We will also explore the benefits of paid leave, while being mindful of the impact of any changes on small employers. Through the Employment Rights Bill, we will make sure that flexible working – which can play such an important role in helping carers balance their work and caring responsibilities - is available to all workers except where it is genuinely not feasible.

With respect to support from DWP, unpaid carers on low incomes can receive support through Universal Credit. This can respond flexibly to variations in earnings and caring responsibilities and includes a carer element worth £2,400 a year for those providing unpaid care of 35 hours a week or more. Full-time carers are also exempt from requirements to seek or prepare for paid work, although they can request employment support if they wish to do so. For those providing unpaid care of less than 35 hours a week, Universal Credit seeks to balance paid work and unpaid care by tailoring the number of hours people are expected to work or search for work to take account of their caring responsibilities. Part-time unpaid carers receive personalised employment support through their Jobcentre Plus work coach. This can include access to skills provision, referral to an employment support programme such as Restart, careers advice, job search support, volunteering opportunities, and access to the Flexible Support Fund to aid job entry.

For those in England and Wales who are providing care of 35 hours or more a week to a disabled or elderly person with care needs, Carer’s Allowance is available. This is subject to a weekly earnings limit, which since 7 April 2025 has been linked to 16 hours work at National Living Wage (NLW) levels. This government has increased the threshold by the biggest amount ever, meaning it is currently £196 a week of net earnings (after allowable costs, including costs related to care), compared to £151 in 2024/25. The increase means that over 60,000 additional people will be able to receive Carer’s Allowance between 2025/26 and 2029/30. This is the largest ever increase in the earnings limit since Carer’s Allowance was introduced in 1976 and is the highest percentage increase since 2001.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps she is taking to expand tenants rights in relation to eviction notices.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The Renters’ Rights Bill delivers our manifesto commitment to transform the experience of private renting, including by ending Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions.

The Bill will improve the current system for both the 11 million private renters and 2.3 million landlords in England.

It will give renters much greater security and stability so they can stay in their homes for longer, build lives in their communities, and avoid the risk of homelessness.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, if she will take steps to prevent long leases from becoming assured shorthold tenancies.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The Renters’ Rights Bill will abolish assured shorthold tenancies, so most private rented sector tenancies will be assured tenancies in future.

The Bill will also exclude leases over 21 years in length from the assured tenancy regime.

This will mean that long leases cannot be considered assured or assured shorthold tenancies once the Bill’s reforms have been brought into force.

This will close the ‘Tenancy Trap’, a problem for some leasehold-homeowners where their properties can be repossessed via the assured tenancy possession ground for rent arrears.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what steps her Department is taking to help ensure that umbrella companies in the temporary labour market comply with tax legislation on (a) the proper (i) deduction and (ii) reporting of (A) income tax and (B) National Insurance contributions for temporary workers and (b) other matters.

Answered by James Murray - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Government is committed to closing the tax gap and making the tax system fairer by ensuring temporary workers are protected from large, unexpected tax bills caused by unscrupulous behaviour from non-compliant umbrella companies. That is why the Chancellor announced in her Autumn Budget that the Government will introduce legislation to make recruitment agencies using umbrella companies legally responsible for accounting for Pay As You Earn on workers’ pay.

The Government set out the expected Exchequer impacts of this measure at the Budget. The Government will publish a full Tax Impact and Information Note later this year.

HMRC recently launched a comprehensive guidance tool, ‘work out pay from an umbrella company’, that agencies and umbrella company workers can use to better understand umbrella company pay and ensure tax compliance. The tool automatically flags discrepancies between submitted payslip information and calculated estimates that could indicate hidden deductions or tax avoidance.

Earlier this month, HMRC published guidance with examples of how umbrella companies can demonstrate good practice. This guidance aims to raise standards across the umbrella company sector, creating a fairer market and helping workers and businesses understand what good practice looks like. This guidance can be found online at www.gov.uk/guidance/examples-of-good-practice-for-umbrella-companies-in-the-temporary-labour-market.

The measures in the Employment Rights Bill will bring the activities of umbrella companies in scope for future regulation to ensure individuals working through them can access the rights they are legally entitled to and can receive greater transparency in the terms of their employment.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether her Department plans to take steps to help (a) improve transparency within the umbrella company sector and (b) ensure workers are not subject to (i) excessive fees and (ii) improper tax arrangements.

Answered by James Murray - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Government is committed to closing the tax gap and making the tax system fairer by ensuring temporary workers are protected from large, unexpected tax bills caused by unscrupulous behaviour from non-compliant umbrella companies. That is why the Chancellor announced in her Autumn Budget that the Government will introduce legislation to make recruitment agencies using umbrella companies legally responsible for accounting for Pay As You Earn on workers’ pay.

The Government set out the expected Exchequer impacts of this measure at the Budget. The Government will publish a full Tax Impact and Information Note later this year.

HMRC recently launched a comprehensive guidance tool, ‘work out pay from an umbrella company’, that agencies and umbrella company workers can use to better understand umbrella company pay and ensure tax compliance. The tool automatically flags discrepancies between submitted payslip information and calculated estimates that could indicate hidden deductions or tax avoidance.

Earlier this month, HMRC published guidance with examples of how umbrella companies can demonstrate good practice. This guidance aims to raise standards across the umbrella company sector, creating a fairer market and helping workers and businesses understand what good practice looks like. This guidance can be found online at www.gov.uk/guidance/examples-of-good-practice-for-umbrella-companies-in-the-temporary-labour-market.

The measures in the Employment Rights Bill will bring the activities of umbrella companies in scope for future regulation to ensure individuals working through them can access the rights they are legally entitled to and can receive greater transparency in the terms of their employment.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps her Department is taking to help support housing associations to seek possession of a property when there is substantial evidence of anti-social behaviour.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Social landlords already have a range of powers and enforcement tools to tackle anti-social behaviour including powers to evict perpetrators. We expect landlords to use those powers promptly and proportionately, putting the needs of victims at the heart of their response.

The government is strengthening these powers through the Renters’ Rights Bill for private registered providers.

Tackling anti-social behaviour is a top priority for this government, and a key part of our Safer Streets Mission. We will crack down on those making neighbourhoods feel unsafe and unwelcoming by introducing the new Respect Order, which local authorities will be able to apply for and which will carry tough sanctions and penalties for persistent adult offenders. The police, local authorities and social landlords may already apply for a Civil Injunction under Section 1 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 to prevent behaviour that is causing housing-related nuisance and annoyance.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps her Department is taking to support (a) local authorities and (b) social housing providers to tackle anti-social behaviour in residential premises.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Social landlords already have a range of powers and enforcement tools to tackle anti-social behaviour including powers to evict perpetrators. We expect landlords to use those powers promptly and proportionately, putting the needs of victims at the heart of their response.

The government is strengthening these powers through the Renters’ Rights Bill for private registered providers.

Tackling anti-social behaviour is a top priority for this government, and a key part of our Safer Streets Mission. We will crack down on those making neighbourhoods feel unsafe and unwelcoming by introducing the new Respect Order, which local authorities will be able to apply for and which will carry tough sanctions and penalties for persistent adult offenders. The police, local authorities and social landlords may already apply for a Civil Injunction under Section 1 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 to prevent behaviour that is causing housing-related nuisance and annoyance.

Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of the Employment Rights Bill on business confidence and growth.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Business and Trade)

The Department for Business and Trade has published a set of Impact Assessments that provide a comprehensive analysis on the potential impact of the Employment Rights Bill. This analysis includes con-sideration of impacts on businesses and economic growth and concludes the package could have “a positive but small direct impact on economic growth” and will “help to raise living standards across the country and create opportunities for all.”

This represents the best estimate for the likely impacts given the current stage of policy development. We plan to refine our analysis as policy development continues, working closely with external experts, businesses and trade unions.

Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the potential impact on apprenticeship numbers of the measures included in the Employment Rights Bill, including the proposed extension of protections against unfair dismissal to day one of employment.

Answered by Baroness Jones of Whitchurch - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

In October, Government published 24 Impact Assessments representing a comprehensive package of analysis on the impact of the Employment Rights Bill. This analysis shows that the Bill is expected to benefit younger workers, typically disproportionately represented in low paid, low quality, insecure jobs.

The Employment Rights Bill will make basic protection against unfair dismissal a day one right for all employees. The new statutory probation period will provide lighter-touch standards for employers to dismiss an employee who is not suitable. These standards will also apply to apprenticeships and training contracts, requiring adequate evidence to justify dismissal on conduct or capability.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what recent assessment she has made of the effectiveness of the licensing criteria for Houses in Multiple Occupation.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

It is important that private rented properties are safe, well-maintained, and properly managed. Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) licensing schemes play a crucial role in achieving this.

The Renters’ Rights Bill introduces reforms to drive-up standards within the private rented sector properties, including HMOs. This includes a Decent Homes Standard and new enforcement powers for local authorities.

We will keep the regulation of HMOs under review.

Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the impact of the implementation of the Employment Rights Bill on the success of British farming.

Answered by Baroness Jones of Whitchurch - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

On Monday 21 October, the Government published 24 Impact Assessments, providing a comprehensive analysis on the potential impact of the Employment Rights Bill. This analysis includes an assessment of impacts on sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing and construction. Our Impact Assessments provide initial analysis of the impacts that could follow, and we will continue to refine that as policy development progresses. Final impacts will depend on further policy decisions that are for secondary legislation. We have committed to full consultation on the implementation of this legislation, and expect this to begin this year, ensuring reforms work for employers and workers alike.

Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the impact of the implementation of the Employment Rights Bill on the success of the UK manufacturing sector.

Answered by Baroness Jones of Whitchurch - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

On Monday 21 October, the Government published 24 Impact Assessments, providing a comprehensive analysis on the potential impact of the Employment Rights Bill. This analysis includes an assessment of impacts on sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing and construction. Our Impact Assessments provide initial analysis of the impacts that could follow, and we will continue to refine that as policy development progresses. Final impacts will depend on further policy decisions that are for secondary legislation. We have committed to full consultation on the implementation of this legislation, and expect this to begin this year, ensuring reforms work for employers and workers alike.

Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the impact of the implementation of the Employment Rights Bill on the success of the UK construction sector.

Answered by Baroness Jones of Whitchurch - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

On Monday 21 October, the Government published 24 Impact Assessments, providing a comprehensive analysis on the potential impact of the Employment Rights Bill. This analysis includes an assessment of impacts on sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing and construction. Our Impact Assessments provide initial analysis of the impacts that could follow, and we will continue to refine that as policy development progresses. Final impacts will depend on further policy decisions that are for secondary legislation. We have committed to full consultation on the implementation of this legislation, and expect this to begin this year, ensuring reforms work for employers and workers alike.

Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what discussions he has had with the Chancellor of the Exchequer on the potential impact of the Employment Rights Bill on economic growth.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Business and Trade)

The Secretary of State, responsible Ministers and policy officials meet regularly with their counterparts in HM Treasury. This includes on discussions related to delivering the biggest upgrade to workers' rights in a generation through the Employment Rights Bill. Our analysis shows the package could have “a positive but small direct impact on economic growth” and will “help to raise living standards across the country and create opportunities for all.”

This represents the best estimate for the likely impacts given the current stage of policy development. We plan to refine our analysis as policy development continues, working closely with external experts, businesses and trade unions.

Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what steps his Department is taking to help protect workers on sponsored visas from mistreatment by unscrupulous employers.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Business and Trade)

The Government is committed to tackling serious labour abuse and exploitation. Workers on sponsored visas have the same protections and rights under employment law as British and settled workers. All employers are expected to comply with UK employment law.

The Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority (GLAA), Employment Agency Standards Inspectorate and HM Revenue and Custom’s National Minimum Wage enforcement team work together to ensure that workers are aware of their rights. If anyone thinks they are not getting their employment rights, they should contact Acas on 0300 123 1100 for advice on next steps.

Through the Employment Rights Bill and the Fair Work Agency we are delivering a much-needed upgrade to employment rights enforcement, including for workers on sponsored visas.

Question

To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities, what steps she is taking to protect the rights of older women.

Answered by Nia Griffith - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Wales Office)

The Equality Act 2010 contains strong protections for older women in a variety of settings, including work and the provision of services. The Act prohibits discrimination because of age and harassment related to age. In addition, the Employment Rights Bill will introduce robust measures to further safeguard working women, including gender and menopause action plans.

The Government recognises the challenges some older women can face and is committed to ensuring that support systems are in place These include improving older people’s participation online through the new Digital Inclusion Action plan, employment support through Jobcentres, and addressing healthcare inequality in the 10 Year Health Plan, to ensure the NHS is there for anyone who needs it, whenever they need it.

Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, pursuant to the Answer of 10 April 2025 to Question 44224 on Employment Rights Bill: Local Government Services, if he will consult each (a) local authority and (b)town and parish council.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Business and Trade)

We will continue to undertake comprehensive engagement and consultation on the implementation of the Plan to Make Work Pay and the Employment Rights Bill, and we will be engaging closely with employers, including local authorities as the policy develops. We will consult extensively on the implementation of the legislation, to ensure it works for workers and employers alike.

Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, whether the trade union recognition provisions in the Employment Rights Bill will apply to town and parish councils.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Business and Trade)

Guidance on the trade union recognition scheme is at Gov.uk. This sets out that the scheme is available to unions where the workplace has 21 or more workers. Therefore the smallest workplaces that have 20 or less workers not in scope of the scheme. There are no specific exemptions for town and parish councils.

Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of the trade union recognition provisions in the Employment Rights Bill on SMEs.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Business and Trade)

The Government has published a final stage impact assessment on strengthening workers’ rights to access, recognition and representation (see paragraphs 61 to 66 in relation to trade union recognition in particular). This is available at: Impact assessment: Strengthening workers’ rights to trade union access, recognition and representation.

The statutory trade union recognition scheme is available to unions where the workplace has 21 or more workers. Therefore the smallest workplaces that have 20 or less workers are not in scope of the scheme.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what guidance her Department issues on whether bereaved families are liable for (a) rent and (b) other costs following the death of a Universal Credit claimant during an assessment period.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The liability of bereaved families of someone who may have been in receipt of Universal Credit will depend on whether they have entered into any legal agreements as a part of their relative's tenancy.

If individuals are unclear on whether they, or another family member, is liable for outstanding debts, they may wish to seek independent advice from organisations such as Citizens Advice.

The Renters’ Rights Bill will limit the liability of a guarantor of a tenancy agreement for rent in the tragic circumstance where a tenant related to them has died.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether her Department has made an assessment of the potential merits of requiring home insurers to offer insurance to landlords offering tenancies to tenants on benefits.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Rental discrimination against people who receive benefits has no place in a fair and modern housing market.

As part of the rental discrimination measures in the Renters’ Rights Bill, any clauses within a new or renewed contract of insurance that would prohibit the letting of a property to a tenant in receipt of benefits will be rendered of no effect.

Many insurers already offer services to landlords who rent to tenants receiving benefits and, following engagement with the sector, we are not expecting any destabilising effect on the market as a result of the provisions in the Renters’ Rights Bill.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether she has made an assessment of the effectiveness of the Housing First Unit established by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The government supports Mayor Burnham’s initiative to improve access to quality housing across Greater Manchester.

Nationally, we are increasing funding for homelessness to nearly £1 billion in 2025/26 and working to reduce homelessness by delivering 1.5 million new homes over the next Parliament and abolishing ‘no fault’ evictions through our Renters’ Rights Bill.

The government is committed to taking further action to raise quality standards in both rented sectors. Reforms are underway to drive up social housing standards, with stronger regulations to hold landlords accountable to regulatory standards. We will introduce Awaab’s Law to both rented sectors and bring forward consultation on the Decent Homes Standard that all social housing landlords must meet.

For more information on the steps we are taking to increasing the supply of social and affordable housing, I refer the hon. Member to my answer to Question UIN 41721 on 3 April 2025.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, with reference to the UN Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights' publication Concluding observations on the seventh periodic report of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, published on 12 March 2025, whether she will make it her policy to adopt the Committee's recommendations on guarantees for (a) safe and (b) adequate living conditions in temporary accommodation through a comprehensive regulatory framework.

Answered by Rushanara Ali - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The Government notes the UN Committee's recommendations on ensuring safe and adequate living conditions in temporary accommodation.

Our Homelessness Code of Guidance provides a summary of the homelessness legislation duties, powers and obligations on local housing authorities, including the quality standards of temporary accommodation.

Legislation is clear that temporary accommodation must be suitable for the needs of the household and that suitability of accommodation should be kept under review. Households may ask for a review of their accommodation if they feel it is unsuitable.

Through the Renters’ Rights Bill, the government will consult on a reformed Decent Homes Standard for the social and private rented sectors in due course. It is the government’s intention that the Decent Homes Standard should apply to as much of the temporary accommodation sector as possible.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what discussions she has had with the Welsh Government on the potential difference of security of tenure that will exist between England and Wales following the passage of the Renters Rights Bill.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The Department has engaged with a wide range of stakeholders during the development of our reforms to the private rented sector, and we have sought to learn from the experience of the devolved nations.

However, housing within Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland are matters for the respective devolved government. Respect for devolution and collaboration with the devolved governments is central to this government’s approach to rebuilding the country.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether her Department plans to improve the rights of residents in non-traditional housing against (a) eviction, (b) sudden contract cancellations and (c) large rent increases.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

All renters, regardless of tenure or agreement type, deserve to feel safe and secure in their homes.

Residents in non-traditional housing who fall outside the assured tenancy system are likely to possess a licence to occupy and thus are excluded from the scope of reforms in the Renters’ Rights Bill.

The government is satisfied that protection exists for residents with a licence to occupy the property through the Protection from Eviction Act 1977 and broader consumer protection legislation.

Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask His Majesty's Government which status of public body they expect the new Fair Pay Agency to have.

Answered by Baroness Jones of Whitchurch - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

Through the Employment Rights Bill, the Government is creating Fair Pay Agreements in the social care sector, and the Fair Work Agency to upgrade enforcement of employment rights.

The Fair Work Agency will be an executive agency of the Department for Business and Trade. This and further information on both the Fair Work Agency and Fair Pay Agreements is set out in the Employment Rights Bill factsheets available on gov.uk: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/employment-rights-bill-factsheets.

Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, pursuant to the Answer of 31 March 2025 to Question 40580 on Trade Union Officials: Facilities Agreements, whether he plans to revoke the The Trade Union (Facility Time Publication Requirements) Regulations 2017 following the passage of the Employment Rights Bill.

Answered by Gareth Thomas - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Business and Trade)

The Trade Union Facility Time Publication Requirements Regulations 2017 will be automatically revoked when section 13 of the Trade Union Act 2016 is repealed pursuant to clause 63 of the Government’s Employment Rights Bill, as they were made under powers included in that section.

Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, if he will make an assessment of the potential impact of the Employment Rights Bill on the ability of councils to provide (a) regular refuse collections and (b) other core services.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Business and Trade)

The delivery of the Plan to Make Work Pay is a manifesto commitment. We will be engaging closely with local authorities as the policy develops and further detail on funding models will be provided in due course. We will consult extensively on the implementation of the legislation to ensure it works for workers and employers alike.

Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he makes of the effectiveness of safeguards to protect tenants from (a) rent increases and (b) evictions following upgrades to Energy Performance ratings by landlords.

Answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero)

The Government launched a consultation on improving minimum energy efficiency standards in the domestic private rented sector on 7^th February 2025.

The Government is committed to protecting and improving the rights of tenants. The Renters’ Rights Bill will put in place new regulations to protect tenants. This includes providing stronger protections to ensure that tenants are able to appeal excessive above-market rents, abolishing Section 21 ‘no fault evictions’, and moving to a simpler tenancy structure where all assured tenancies are periodic. These measures provide more security for tenants and enable them to challenge poor practice and unfair rent increases without fear of eviction.

Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, whether his Department plans to publish a timeline for the Fair Work Agency becoming fully operational.

Answered by Justin Madders - Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Business and Trade)

Creating the Fair Work Agency (FWA) is a complex process that requires primary legislation. The Employment Rights Bill is the first phase of delivering the FWA.

Implementation will occur in phases following Royal Assent to ensure a smooth and effective transition. We will provide more information on timings in due course.

We think the Selective Licensing of Houses (Additional Conditions) (England) Order 2015 should be revoked immediately by the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government and not implement new schemes or renew any schemes currently in effect.

Found: We think the Renters Rights Bill provides for a Private Rented Sector database obviating a need for such

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Found: is also boosting the National Living Wage and creating more secure jobs through the Employment Rights Bill

Found: The launch of the group comes as the government steers its flagship Employment Rights Bill through Parliament

Found: Wage, increased the National Minimum Wage and is creating more secure jobs through the Employment Rights Bill

Found: The Land Commission Bill (2022) and its associate, the Customary Land Rights Bill (2022), were launched

Found: launch of the National Land Policy in 2015, The Land Commission Bill (2022) and the Customary Land Rights Bill

Found: English Devolution Bill (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government) • the Employment Rights Bill

Found: The government is also taking action through the Employment Rights Bill to bring umbrella companies within

Found: We have written some rules called the Employment Rights Bill.

Found: Other measures to strengthen equality protections and requirements are included in the Employment Rights Bill

Found: Legislative Consent Memorandum: delegated powers relevant to Scotland in the Employment Rights Bill A

Found: considered powers to make subordinate legislation within devolved competence in 2 LCMs— • Renters' Rights Bill

Found: Housing and Planning Committee Report on a Legislative Consent Memorandum (LCM) for the Renters' Rights Bill

Found: • The campaign urged for rehabilitation access to be incorporated into a forthcoming Human Rights Bill

Found: Human Rights Emma Barron Enable’s Human Rights Lead talked to the CPG members about the Human Rights Bill

Found: take several years and needs to be tied in with the development of other things e.g. the Human Rights Bill

Found: commitments include legislating to criminalise misogynistic conduct and the introduction of a Human Rights Bill

Found: rally behind at this Congress, and it's why my government welcomes the UK government's employment rights bill

Found: and develop human rights protections in Scotland, including a commitment to introduce a Human Rights Bill

Found: housing • Affordable Homes Programme • Housing quality • Private rented sector and Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: Speaking note Separate Event Programme 4 Biographies 6 Key issues 7 Annex A – Human Rights Bill

Found: for DFM speech Hi [redacted – s38(1)(b) personal information], Please find attached Human Rights Bill

Found: REDACTED], Ending Conversion Practices Bill Team • [REDACTED], Incorporation Policy Manager (Human Rights Bill

Found: 00:00MeetingHousing 2040 Board MeetingHousing2024-10-30 00:00:00Meeting / Video ConferenceHuman Rights Bill

Found: Government’s progress on Fair Work being outstripped by upcoming legislation in the UK Employment Rights Bill

Found: monitored and the provisions will be reflected upon as part of the development of the forthcoming Human Rights Bill

Found: Living Policy OfficerHousing and Social Security Policy OfficerHousing to 2040 Policy OfficerHuman Rights Bill

Found: Human Rights Bill: Implementation Working Group - October 2024

Found: Scotland2023-08-15 00:00:00240unknown -[REDACTED] [REDACTED]-Disability Equality Scotland Invoice -Human Rights Bill

Found: Scottish Human Rights Bill ..........................................................................

Found: • We had originally intended to introduce a Human Rights Bill in this Parliamentary session.

Found: conversion practices bill and non- legislative measures, followed by a discussion on the Human Rights Bill

Found: , 2024 12:53 PM To: Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice Subject: A Human Rights Bill

Found: Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) into Scots law via the Scottish Government's proposed Human Rights Bill

Found: ..1..Hub Triage Manager.....1.Human RIghts Policy Lead (Treaties and International)..11111Human Rights Bill

Found: Human Rights Strategy and Legislation [Redacted – s38(1)(b)] [Redacted – s38(1)(b)] Human Rights Bill

Found: Human Rights Bill: Core Implementation Working Group - May 2024

Found: Human Rights Bill: Wider Implementation Working Group Minutes - April 2024

Found: Human Rights Bill costs breakdown and timescales: FOI release

Found: Human Rights Bill costs breakdown and timescales: FOI release

Found: • We are committed to the Human Rights Bill.

Found: The Fostering Network recommended the Scottish Government recommit to introducing a Human Rights Bill

Question

To ask the Scottish Government on what dates the Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Home Affairs has met the (a) chief executive of the Scottish Prisons Service, (b) chief Social Work Advisor, (c) chief executive of the Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service and (d) Lord President of the Court of Session since 29 March 2023, and what subjects were discussed.

Answered by Constance, Angela - Cabinet Secretary for Justice and Home Affairs

I have met the Chief Executive of the Scottish Prisons Service, the Chief Social Work Advisor, Chief Executive of the Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service and Lord President of the Court of Session on a number of occasions since 29 March 2023.

Information is set out in the following tables on meetings with each individual and a small number of ad hoc additional meetings.

Meetings with Chief Executive the Scottish Prison Service

Question

To ask the Scottish Government what its position is on the use of so-called "fire-and-rehire" practices in the public sector in Scotland, in light of the proposed Employment Rights Bill by the UK Government.

Answered by Arthur, Tom - Minister for Employment and Investment

The Scottish Government has been consistently clear that it opposes fire and rehire practices.

Question

To ask the Scottish Government what discussions it is having with the UK Government regarding (a) trade union recognition and (b) the application of the national minimum wage in the maritime supply chain for the Inch Cape Offshore Wind Farm.

Answered by Martin, Gillian - Acting Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy

Employment and industrial relations legislation is reserved to the UK Parliament. While this remains the case, the Scottish Government will continue to use our Fair Work policy to drive up labour market standards for workers across the Scottish labour market.

Ministers are clear that the best way to protect Scotland’s workers is by devolving employment law. However, Ministers welcome the UK Government’s Employment Rights Bill and continue to work with them to ensure it has a positive impact across Scotland.

There have been no discussions with the UK Government specifically regarding trade union recognition or the application of the national minimum wage in the maritime supply chain for the Inch Cape Offshore Wind Farm.

Found: The UK Employment Rights Bill

Found: Energy Bill (original and first supplementary memorandum) 6 February 2025 Consent granted Renters’ Rights Bill

Found: It goes on to state that "Once the proposed Scottish Human Rights Bill becomes law these internationally

Found: Consent recommended Data (Use and Access) Bill 22 November 2024 Consent recommended Employment Rights Bill

Found: Constitution Committee The Welsh Government’s Legislative Consent Memoranda on the Employment Rights Bill

Found: Wage, increased the National Minimum Wage and is creating more secure jobs through the Employment Rights Bill

Found: Completed: The Secretariat emailed members with the summary on 19 February Agenda item 2:  Employment Rights Bill

Found: Agenda item 1: welcome/opening remarks Agenda item 2: Employment Rights Bill Action: Welsh Government

Found: The contents of this paper and the Welsh Government’s stance on the Employment Rights Bill. ii.    

Found: The SPC have also discussed the impact of the UK Employment Rights Bill currently making its way through

Found: Employment Rights Bill update – Head of Modern Slavery and Workers’ Rights, Welsh Government 4.1

Found: Employment Rights Bill Presentation to the Gender Equality Forum December 2024Context • Key part of

Found: Martin Griffiths and Mrs Justice Nerys Jefford 2022-01-27 00:00:00 cyfarfod/meeting British Bill of Rights - Bill

Found: collaborative approach with partners across Wales and we welcome the UK Government’s Employment Rights Bill

Found: In 2023, the Scottish Government undertook a consultation36 on a Human Rights Bill for Scotland that

Found: Government and ESJ Committee updates CW provided an update on the LOWG’s progress: Scottish Human Rights Bill

Found: governments-draft-budget-2023-24/ [accessed November 2023] George, J. (2023) The ‘Modern’ Bill of Rights Bill

Found: Consider the case for a Welsh Human Rights Bill.

Found: considering both taking these forward separately or a more holistic approach, such as a Welsh Human Rights Bill

Found: This year has seen human rights in the headlines – the UK Government’s Bill of Rights Bill was thankfully

Found: Update UK Government Bill of Rights Bill and Illegal Migration Act 2023 MSJCW re-iterated the news the

Found: with Ireland through energy collaboration,the potential negative impact of the proposed UK Bill of Rights Bill

Found: UK Government Bill of Rights Bill (BoRB): update and discussion MSJ provided an update on the December

Found: UK Government Bill of Rights Bill (BoRB): update and discussion CGMC summarised the recent developments

Found: table B.1 need to be checked to be consistent with those in schedule 2 of the Clean Air Human Rights Bill

Found: December 2021 Law Commission report on devolved tribunals) consider the case for a Welsh Human Rights Bill

Found: Bill of Rights Bill of Rights The Bill is likely to include proposals to revoke and replace aspects of

Found: conventions into Welsh law and whether there may be a need for fresh legislation, such as a Human Rights Bill

Found: The Consumer Rights Bill, currently passing through the UK Parliament, makes provision for all alternative

Found: Regeneration, Rebecca Evans, said: “I am delighted the Abolition of the Right to Buy and Associated Rights Bill

Question

Why did the Welsh Government and relevant stakeholders decide to make the Social Care Workforce Partnership something employers voluntarily adopt, rather than something compulsory across the independent social care sector?

Answered by Minister for Children and Social Care

The partnership aims, through the development of the announced HR policies, to set expectations and bring consistency to the sector by developing national approaches to these issues.

We are committed to raising the profile and status of the social care workforce through registration, improved pay and better terms and conditions. The Social Care Workforce Partnership will support to embed the principles of Fair Work helping us to build a more resilient and sustainable workforce.

The Partnership has consulted with social care employers and the workforce in deciding on these initial priorities based on what the sector said was important to them. This ongoing dialogue will continue and is crucial for developing trusted relationships that promote cooperation, respect, trust, and increased participation, ultimately delivering mutual gains and benefits.

Welsh Government working in partnership with trade unions and social care employers demonstrates our collective commitment to creating a fairer and more supportive work environment for social care workers in Wales.

Employment law is non devolved and therefore, Welsh Government have minimal scope in enforcing providers to adopt employment policies. However, my officials are working closely with the UK Government to explore how the UK Government Employment Rights Bill, can also benefit Wales.

Question

When will the provisions for keeping pets from the UK Government Renters' Rights Bill be implemented in Wales?

Answered by Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government

The provisions relating to pets in the UK Government Renters’ Rights Bill will not apply to Wales.

Welsh Government will set out proposals relating to renting with pets in our White Paper on Adequate Housing, Fair Rents, and Affordability, which is due to be published in the next few days.

Question

What provisions in relation to pets in the UK Government Renters' Rights Bill does the Cabinet Secretary intend to make applicable to Wales?

Answered by Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government

The provisions relating to pets in the UK Government Renters’ Rights Bill will not apply to Wales.

Welsh Government will set out proposals relating to renting with pets in our White Paper on Adequate Housing, Fair Rents, and Affordability, which is due to be published in the next few days.

Question

Further to WQ94034, when does the Cabinet Secretary foresee a transformative new deal for working people will make work fairer, safer and more secure for all workers?

Answered by Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnership

I expect the Employment Rights Bill to have its first reading in the UK Parliament in October this year. I look forward to meeting with the UK Minister for Employment Rights later this autumn to discuss the Bill and the wider implementation of the Plan to Make Work Pay.

Question

What steps has the Government taken and what progress has the Government made in aiming to secure the devolution of the Health and Safety Executive to Wales?

Answered by Minister for Social Partnership

The UK Government has committed to reviewing health and safety guidance and regulations as part of its Plan to Make Work Pay.  Our priority is to work with the UK Government on this agenda and to deliver its new Employment Rights Bill which will strengthen workers’ protections, enhance trade union rights, and improve enforcement.   I will be raising the remit and resourcing of the HSE in my discussions with UK Ministers on these issues. 

Question

What discussions has the Counsel General had with the new Secretary of State for Wales regarding the defence of the European Convention on Human Rights?

Answered by Counsel General and Minister for the Constitution

I and the Minister for Social Justice have had meetings with UK Government Ministers, as well as with Welsh Stakeholders, since the consultation on replacing the Human Rights Act 1998 (HRA) with a Bill of Rights was launched in December 2021, including a meeting with the Deputy Prime Minister in February.    The Welsh Government submitted a response to this consultation in March, which set out how human rights, the HRA and the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) have been “at the heart of devolution in Wales”. The Minister for Social Justice and I also issued a Written Statement when the Bill of Rights was introduced in the House of Commons on 22 June.

I also attended a meeting of the Cross-Party Group on Human Rights on 30 June and met the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, Dunja Mijatović on 13 July.  The Bill of Rights Bill and the ECHR were the main topics of discussion at both meetings.

I have not yet had a meeting with the new Secretary of State for Wales, Robert Buckland MP, since he was appointed on 7 July.  When we meet, I intend to highlight again the Welsh Government’s substantial concerns about the Bill of Rights Bill.  Although the Deputy Prime Minister has recently confirmed that the UK will remain signatory to the ECHR, our concerns remain that the Bill could lead to regression on human rights in Wales and the UK.

Found: On 25 November 2014, the Assembly agreed a Legislative Consent Motion on the Consumer Rights Bill (

Found: On 25 November 2014, the Assembly agreed a Legislative Consent Motion on the Consumer Rights Bill (

Found: ............................................................................ 1 British Bill of Rights Bill

Found: ............................................................................ 2 British Bill of Rights Bill

Found: Consumer Rights Bill ......................................................................... 13 3.3

Found: Subjects (Registration) Bill Bus Services Bill Care of Older and Incapacitated People (Human Rights) Bill

Found: Financial Services (Land Transactions) Bill, the work and families Bill and the childcare and parental rights Bill

Found: Caravan Sites (Security of Tenure) Bill: Bill dropped Care of Older and Incapacitated People (Human Rights) Bill

Found: Subjects (Registration) Bill Bus Services Bill Care of Older and Incapacitated People (Human Rights) Bill

Found: Subjects (Registration) Bill Bus Services Bill Care of Older and Incapacitated People (Human Rights) Bill

Found: Services (Land Transactions) Bill 27 Consumer Credit Bill 28 Company Law Reform Bill 28 Parental Rights Bill

Found: Subjects (Registration) Bill • Bus Services Bill • Care of Older and Incapacitated People (Human Rights) Bill

Found: Subjects (Registration) Bill • Bus Services Bill • Care of Older and Incapacitated People (Human Rights) Bill

Found: Draft Consumer Rights Bill ............................................................... 13 3.9.