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‘Dear CEO’: Union reps hit chief executive inboxes at 12.03
GMB representatives reportedly emailed thousands of chief executives at 12.03am on 30 October, shortly after new workers’ rights took effect. The emails set out workers’ rights to access trade unions and asked employers to meet with union representatives, allow recruitment or organising, and enable online meetings with staff during work hours.
The messages also said employers must distribute one item of union information each week to all workers, using channels they normally use, such as email, an intranet, Slack or Microsoft Teams. The changes have divided businesses and unions: the government negotiated a compromise over day-one unfair dismissal rights, while the Office for Budget Responsibility said the new employment rights act was likely to damage hiring, without completing a full assessment. GMB said the reforms would strengthen workers’ voices.
In short
- GMB contacted thousands of company chiefs as new rights took effect.
- Employers were told to share weekly union information with staff.
- The changes have drawn concern from businesses and support from GMB.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters argue that workers need practical ways to learn about and join unions, especially where employers control the channels and time available for workplace communication. Access to regular information and online meetings could help staff raise concerns collectively and understand their rights, while giving employers and unions a clearer basis for engagement.
The case against
Critics argue that requiring employers to provide recurring access and distribute union material through workplace channels may impose administrative costs and intrude on how businesses organise staff time and communications. They may also worry that added obligations and uncertainty around employment rules could make hiring or workforce planning harder, particularly for smaller employers.
Explained simply
Trade unions represent workers in discussions with employers about pay, conditions and workplace concerns. GMB is one of Britain’s large unions, and its representatives seek to recruit members and organise workers in different industries.
The new rules give unions rights to access workplaces and share information with workers. Employers may need to make time and channels available for meetings and union communications, including through tools they already use at work.
The changes form part of a wider employment rights reform, which has prompted debate about protections for workers and the effects on businesses. The government negotiated a compromise on unfair dismissal protections, while the Office for Budget Responsibility said the broader changes were likely to affect hiring, noting it had not completed a full assessment.