Northamptonshire Businesses Invited to Shape New Zero Hour Contract Measures for Agency Workers

Businesses in Northamptonshire are invited to participate in a government-led consultation on the application of proposed zero hour contract measures for agency workers. This consultation presents an opportunity for local businesses to voice their views on how these policies might impact agency work in a way that balances flexibility for employers and security for workers.

The government’s Employment Rights Bill aims to promote a “pro-worker, pro-business economy,” where flexibility works for both parties. The Bill will fulfil the government’s commitment to ending exploitative zero hours contracts by introducing guaranteed hours for qualifying workers, aligning their hours with those worked over an anticipated reference period of 12 weeks. It will also establish the right to reasonable shift notice and compensation for shifts cancelled at short notice.

Until 2nd December, the government seeks to understand how these proposed changes should be applied to agency work, which remains an essential component for many businesses needing adaptable workforce solutions. The temporary agency workforce, currently around one million strong, contributes approximately £34 billion to the UK economy. As such, business insights are invaluable in ensuring these measures support both fair employment practices and the flexibility necessary for businesses to remain competitive.

Simon Cox, Head of Policy for the Northamptonshire Chamber of Commerce said “Locally, businesses in Northamptonshire are encouraged to provide feedback before the consultation closes on 2nd December. The input from local businesses will be instrumental in shaping the final provisions of the Employment Rights Bill and establishing a balanced framework that benefits employers and agency workers alike.”

To complete the consultation, please visit the consultation here.

For more information, please contact: policy@northants-chamber.co.uk or policy@chambermk.co.uk.