Commons Sense

House of Commons · Bill Debate

Zero Hours Workers (Predictable Working) Bill - Clause to introduce right to request a more predictable working pattern

24 March 2023 · 6 other contributors

Opened by Scott Benton Con Blackpool South

Employment

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Scott Benton raised concerns about zero hours workers (predictable working) bill - clause to introduce right to request a more predictable working pattern in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • The debate focused on a clause to introduce a right for workers to request a more predictable working pattern.
  • The clause aims to address one-sided flexibility that workers face under zero-hours contracts.
  • The Bill is described as a "win-win" for both workers and employers.

How the debate unfolded

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

Opened the debate

Scott Benton Con Blackpool South

I am delighted that we are here today to take a further step forward towards introducing a new right for workers to request a more predictable working pattern. Throughout the passage of the Bill I have spoken of the importance of introducing this new right to tackle one-sided flexibility... The Bill will not only benefit workers. On Second Reading my hon. Friend the Member for South West Hertfordshire (Mr Mohindra) aptly described the right to request a more predictable working pattern as a “win-win” for workers and employers.

Other contributors (6)
  • Scott Benton Con Blackpool South

    The Bill targets one-sided flexibility in zero-hours contracts, allowing agency and temporary workers to request more predictable working patterns. It aims to balance new rights for workers with the impact on businesses by setting specific statutory grounds similar to flexible working requests. The eligibility criteria are designed to include as many workers as possible who have unpredictable working patterns.

  • Laura Farris Lab Wolverhampton South West

    Supports the Bill for injecting clarity about zero-hours contracts and recognising that they can offer flexibility to students, older workers, and parents. However, she emphasises the need for predictability in these arrangements to prevent exploitative practices.

  • Kieran Mullan Con Bexhill and Battle

    Supports the Bill, citing personal experience with zero-hours contracts as beneficial. Argues for a balanced approach rather than outright banning them, highlighting their importance in sectors like healthcare.

  • Imran Hussain Lab Bradford East

    Welcomes the Bill but criticises the Government for not taking action earlier. Emphasises the exploitation faced by those on zero-hours contracts, highlighting increased numbers from 150,000 to over 1 million and disproportionately affecting women and ethnic minorities.

  • Kevin Hollinrake Con Thirsk and Malton

    The hon. Member for Thirsk and Malton supported the Bill, highlighting that zero-hours contracts are an essential part of the UK’s flexible labour market. He cited a survey indicating that 64% of people on such contracts do not want more hours and are content with their current arrangements. However, he also emphasised tackling unfair practices by employers who exploit workers. The hon. Member noted that the Bill offers flexibility to businesses while ensuring predictability for workers.

  • Scott Benton Con Blackpool South

    The hon. Member for Blackpool South thanked his colleagues and praised their contributions, particularly highlighting the support from the Minister and other MPs. He noted that zero-hours contracts are crucial in sectors like tourism and leisure but also emphasised addressing unfair practices by employers. The Bill aims to give workers the right to request predictable working patterns while acknowledging that businesses have legitimate reasons for maintaining flexibility.

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