Labour's Election and Its Impact on Employment and Immigration Policies

Welcome to Borderless, the podcast dedicated to global mobility, immigration, employment law, and HR matters. In this episode, host Simon Kenny, an immigration partner at Spencer West Solicitors, is joined by Fiona Blakey, an employment law specialist from the same firm. Together, they delve into the potential implications of the upcoming UK general election, which is likely to result in a Labour majority. The discussion focuses on Labour’s anticipated policies regarding employment law and immigration, exploring how these changes could impact HR practices.

Fiona provides insights into Labour’s proposals for overhauling worker rights, emphasizing reforms in worker status, zero-hours contracts, and the potential for day-one employment rights. Simon examines the anticipated shifts in immigration policy, noting that while Labour aims to prevent worker exploitation, significant changes to the immigration system may be less dramatic. The episode offers practical advice for employers on preparing for these potential changes, including reviewing employment policies and considering employee representation groups. Tune in to understand how the political landscape could reshape the future of employment and immigration in the UK.

 

Key Takeaways:

1. Labour's Predicted Victory: The upcoming UK general election is expected to result in a Labour majority, which will likely lead to significant changes in employment law and immigration policies
2. Employment Law Overhaul: Labour aims to enhance worker rights with reforms addressing worker status, zero-hours contracts, and introducing day-one rights for unfair dismissal. These changes will impact both employers and employees significantly.
3. Worker Status Clarification: Labour's proposals seek to simplify the classification of employees, workers, and the genuinely self-employed, potentially extending more rights to those in the gig economy.

Quotes:

"Labour's proposals include reforms that are going to enforce and enhance workers' rights, and those of trade unions. Whether or not all of the things they’re proposing will actually come to fruition remains to be seen." – Fiona Blakey

Resources:

• Simon on LinkedIn
• Fiona on LinkedIn