Commons Sense

House of Commons · General Debate

Bullying and Respect at Work

11 July 2023 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Rachael Maskell Labour (Co-op) York Central

EmploymentWomen & Equalities

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Rachael Maskell raised concerns about bullying and respect at work in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • Ms Maskell moved a Bill to provide for a statutory definition of bullying at work, enabling claims to be considered by an employment tribunal.
  • The Bill gives powers to the Equalities and Human Rights Commission to investigate workplaces with evidence of a bullying culture or multiple incidents of bullying.
  • Ms Maskell highlighted that 29% of workers experience workplace bullying at some point, and one in ten have experienced it within the last six months.

How the debate unfolded

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

Opened the debate

Rachael Maskell Labour (Co-op) York Central

Ms. Maskell moved a Bill to provide for a statutory definition of bullying at work, enabling claims relating to workplace bullying to be considered by an employment tribunal; to give powers to the Equalities and Human Rights Commission to investigate workplaces and organisations where there is evidence of a culture of, or multiple incidents of, bullying; and for connected purposes. She highlighted that 29% of workers experience workplace bullying at some point and one in ten have experienced it within the last six months. The Bill aims to promote respect at work by setting minimum standards for positive and respectful work environments, providing legal protection against bullying.

Other contributors (1)
  • Rachael Maskell Lab Co-op York Central

    Ms. Maskell emphasised the lack of legal definition and protections for those experiencing workplace bullying, noting that it costs UK businesses £18 billion a year and results in over 17 million working days lost annually due to negative work-related behaviors such as bullying. She detailed how bullying can be organisational or peer-on-peer, causing lasting trauma and even loss of lives. The Bill seeks to provide legal protection for workers without protected characteristics under the Equality Act.

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