Commons Sense

House of Commons · General Debate

Workers (Definition and Rights)

26 February 2020 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Chris Stephens SNP Glasgow Cathcart

Employment

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Chris Stephens raised concerns about workers (definition and rights) in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • Chris Stephens moved to amend the definition of a worker to include greater protection from the start of employment.
  • He aimed to address recent Supreme Court judgments by eliminating zero-hours contracts.
  • Stephens highlighted the need for better protection for precarious work, particularly in the hospitality sector.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Chris Stephens SNP Glasgow Cathcart

Chris Stephens moved to amend the definition of a worker, to make provision about workers’ rights, and to address recent Supreme Court judgments. He emphasised the need for greater protection from day one in employment, eliminating zero-hours contracts, and providing better protection for precarious work, especially in the hospitality sector. He highlighted that current practices promote insecurity and hardship among workers and suggested penalties for employers who change shift notices with short notice.

Other contributors (1)
  • Chris Stephens SNP Glasgow Cathcart

    Chris Stephens argued that the Bill would refine worker definitions, provide greater protection to workers from day one of employment, eliminate zero-hours contracts, and give better support to precarious work. He cited examples of individuals affected by zero-hour contracts in Cheshire and Coventry who faced financial instability due to unpredictable income and delays in Universal Credit payments. Stephens also mentioned the Living Wage Foundation's 'insecurity premium' concept which affects those with variable hours and low incomes significantly.

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