The government's landmark Employment Rights Bill, described by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer as a significant upgrade to workers' rights, will be implemented through a phased rollout extending until 2027.
Key provisions, such as a ban on exploitative zero-hours contracts and 'day-one' protections against unfair dismissal, are scheduled to come into full effect in 2027.
Immediate changes upon the Bill's royal assent include the repeal of Conservative-era industrial action restrictions and new protections for striking workers.
Further reforms, including enhanced sick pay, 'day-one' paternity leave, and measures to end 'fire and rehire' practices, are slated for April and October 2026.
The phased approach aims to give businesses ample time to prepare, a move welcomed by business groups, while union leaders urge earlier adoption of the changes and the Conservative opposition criticises the delay.
