Union Outrage as Labour Softens Workers' Rights Plan

Union Fury Erupts

A major controversy has erupted as Sir Keir Starmer, the Labour leader, has watered down his contentious workers' rights plan, leading to a fierce backlash from the Unite trade union. The final version of the document, which was quietly released overnight, has been heavily criticized.

U-Turns and Softened Pledges

The revised plan includes significant U-turns, such as toning down the proposed ban on zero-hours contracts to only target "exploitative" arrangements. Additionally, the promised legal "right to switch off" has been softened to encourage "constructive conversations" between workers and employers regarding workplace policies and contractual terms.

Renaming and Power Struggles

In an attempt to appeal to swing voters and reassure businesses, Labour has renamed the radical package from the "New Deal for Working People" to "Labour's Plan to Make Work Pay." This move follows a power struggle within the party over the extent of the reforms proposed by deputy leader Angela Rayner.

Union Response and Warning

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham lambasted the revised scheme, stating that it has "more holes in it than Swiss cheese" and could potentially become a "bad bosses' charter" due to numerous caveats and loopholes. She cautioned that Labour must demonstrate its commitment to upholding workers' rights.

Labour's Stance and Future Plans

A Labour spokesperson emphasized that the party's New Deal for Working People aims to enhance wages, ensure job security, and support working individuals. The plan includes measures to implement a genuine living wage, prohibit exploitative zero-hours contracts, and end the practice of hire and refire. Labour remains resolute in its mission to improve Britain's economy and elevate living standards nationwide.