Queen’s Speech: Where is the Employment Bill for low-paid workers?

Helen Barnard, Director of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, said:

“We are deeply concerned that providing security for low-paid workers was not a priority in today’s Queen’s Speech. The Government has repeatedly committed to levelling up our country, but with one in eight workers trapped in poverty and many of them hardest hit by the pandemic, many will be in disbelief there was no bill to protect them announced today.

“Having a good job means you can sleep that bit easier knowing that you have enough shifts, and an adequate income, and that your working pattern and conditions meets the needs of you and your family. The Government should explain its silence on these issues and reassure workers that they have listened and will take action.

“We welcome the commitment made to bring forward the Renters’ Reform Bill, but similar promises have been made before so now it is the duty of ministers to deliver.”