Angela Rayner faces backlash over Employment Rights Bill

Angela Rayner, the Deputy Prime Minister, is facing pressure from her colleagues to revise her plans on workers' rights. There is concern that her proposals may be too harsh on businesses. A group of business leaders is preparing to send a letter to the House of Lords to express their worries about the Employment Rights Bill. This group, known as B5, includes major business organizations like the British Chambers of Commerce and the CBI. In their draft letter, they warned that the bill could lead to serious problems, affecting the Government's goals for economic growth. They believe the proposed changes might harm living standards and lead businesses to make tough decisions about jobs and investment. The letter suggests that some parts of the bill go further than what was promised in Labour's manifesto. It calls for the Lords to carefully review the legislation to balance the needs of workers and businesses. A government representative defended the plan, highlighting its support among business and the public, and stating that it aims to improve workers' rights. Rayner described her legislation as a major step forward for workers. It includes ensuring guaranteed hours, limiting zero-hour contracts, and making it harder for companies to rehire workers under new terms after layoffs. The bill received strong support in the House of Commons, passing with 333 votes to 100.