The Labour government is facing a significant internal rebellion and accusations of a 'complete betrayal' after performing a major U-turn on a key workers' rights manifesto pledge.
From Day-One to Six Months: The Policy Shift
Ministers have abandoned their initial plan to grant workers protection against unfair dismissal from their very first day in a new job. Instead, the government has now revised the policy, announcing that employees will need to have completed six months of service before they can bring forward an unfair dismissal claim.
This reversal from the proposed day-one protection was confirmed on Friday 28 November 2025. The decision has ignited immediate and fierce criticism from within the party's own ranks and from the trade unions that form a core part of its support base.
A 'Pragmatic Decision' or a 'Complete Betrayal'?
Government ministers, including Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson, have defended the change. They characterise it as a pragmatic decision and a necessary compromise that was reached following consultations with both unions and employers.
They argue that this revised approach still honours the manifesto's commitment to consultation and strikes a balance between the interests of employees and the concerns of business groups, who have welcomed the concession.
However, this justification has done little to quell the anger from Labour backbenchers and union leaders. They have labelled the move a "complete betrayal" of a clear manifesto promise and a broken commitment to the workforce. Some have gone further, calling it a "sellout" and describing the decision as "unacceptable".
Fallout and Future Campaigns
The backlash has been swift and vocal. Prominent figures from trade unions and a number of Labour MPs have publicly condemned the government's shift in policy.
In a clear signal that this issue is far from settled, these critics have already vowed to campaign vigorously for the reversal of this decision. They are pledging to continue fighting to see the original day-one protection pledge reinstated, setting the stage for a prolonged internal party conflict over workers' rights and the integrity of Labour's manifesto commitments.
