Unions seek workplace access ahead of new employment rights law
Unions are contacting businesses to request access to workplaces ahead of new provisions in Labour’s Employment Rights Act taking effect on 30 October. The changes will allow union officials and shop stewards to enter offices and factories, prompting concerns among some business representatives about the effect on employers.
Employment lawyer Chris Coombes said several unions had already made voluntary access requests. A survey of almost 200 business leaders found 2 per cent were fully prepared for the rules, 48 per cent somewhat prepared and half not prepared at all. The Government’s impact assessment estimated the Act could cost businesses up to £5 billion a year; Shadow Chancellor Andrew Griffith criticised the changes, while the article also notes other union demands and policy changes since Labour took office in 2024.
In short
- New union workplace access rules start on 30 October.
- Some unions are already making voluntary access requests.
- Half of surveyed employers said they were unprepared.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters can argue that workplace access helps unions explain new rights, hear workers’ concerns and represent people who may otherwise struggle to organise or raise problems. They may see the changes as a way to improve representation and workplace relations, with the potential costs to employers balanced by stronger protections and clearer channels for resolving disputes.
The case against
Critics can argue that access rights may disrupt businesses, impose administrative costs and complicate employers’ management of their workplaces, particularly when many surveyed leaders say they are not fully prepared. They may question whether the expected benefits justify the burden, and favour narrower rules or more time for businesses to adapt.
Explained simply
Trade unions represent workers in discussions with employers about matters such as pay and working conditions. Union officials and workplace representatives, often called shop stewards, may speak with workers at their place of work, but access to business premises has been subject to rules.
The Employment Rights Act is a UK law that introduces changes to employment rights in stages. The provisions due to take effect on 30 October concern when union representatives can enter workplaces; they form part of a wider set of changes affecting employers and workers.
The issue matters because access could affect how unions communicate with workers and how businesses manage their premises. Employers, unions and the Government have differing interests in how the rules work, and the law’s estimated costs and practical effects are part of the public debate.
Read the full article at the source →
Originally published by Daily Mail as “Trade unions begin ‘bombarding’ firms with demands before Rayner’s new workers’ rights laws come into effect”.