In a powerful address to union leaders and party members, Deputy Labour Leader Angela Rayner has made an unequivocal commitment: a Labour government will enact its groundbreaking New Deal for Workers within its first 100 days of power.
The ambitious employment reforms, described as "the biggest levelling-up of workers' rights in decades," target some of the most controversial practices in the UK labour market. Rayner specifically highlighted the abolition of zero-hour contracts and the elimination of fire-and-rehire tactics that have plagued many industries.
Immediate Action Promise
Rayner's pledge represents a significant acceleration of Labour's previously announced timeline, demonstrating the party's determination to prioritise workers' rights from day one. "We won't waste a single moment in delivering on our promises to working people," she declared to enthusiastic applause.
The deputy leader emphasised that the reforms would be introduced through an Employment Rights Bill, which would:
- Ban exploitative zero-hour contracts
- Outlaw the controversial fire-and-rehire practice
- Strengthen statutory sick pay provisions
- Enhance protections for flexible workers
- Create a single status of "worker" for most employees
Union Backing and Business Engagement
The announcement received immediate endorsement from major trade unions, with Unite's general secretary Sharon Graham praising the commitment as "a game-changer for millions of workers." However, Rayner also stressed that Labour would engage with businesses to ensure the reforms work for both employees and employers.
Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves is reportedly working closely with Rayner to ensure the economic implications of the reforms are carefully balanced, recognising the need to maintain business confidence while delivering on workers' rights.
Contrast With Current Government
Rayner didn't miss the opportunity to contrast Labour's ambitious plans with what she characterised as the Conservative government's "failure to protect workers during the cost-of-living crisis." She pointed to recent controversies over working conditions in various sectors as evidence of the need for comprehensive reform.
The commitment places workers' rights at the heart of Labour's election offering, signalling the party's intention to make employment protection a key battleground in the upcoming general election campaign.
