House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement
Consultation on ending one-sided flexibility: reforms of zero hours and similar contracts
02 June 2026 · Department for Business and Trade
Proposed by Kate Dearden Labour (Co-op) Halifax
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
At a glance
Key points
- The Department for Business and Trade launches a consultation on reforms to zero hours and similar contracts.
- The consultation closes on August 25th, 2026 and consists of three parts focusing on guaranteed hours, reasonable notice of shifts, and amendments to employment regulations.
- The government will analyze responses and publish a formal reply and any new regulations following the consultation period.
Issue summary
The statement discusses the launch of a consultation on reforms to zero hours and similar contracts aimed at increasing worker security and stability while balancing labour market flexibility.
Action requested
The Department for Business and Trade is launching a consultation that will close on August 25th, 2026. This includes three parts covering guaranteed hours, reasonable notice of shifts, and amendments to employment regulations. The government will analyze responses before publishing a response and making regulations.
Key facts
- Consultation launched on reforms for zero hours contracts.
- Three objectives: worker security, flexibility rebalancing, economic growth.
- Part 1 covers guaranteed hours eligibility and record-keeping needs.
- Part 2 details reasonable notice of shifts and short notice payments.
- Part 3 considers amending the Conduct of Employment Agencies Regulations.
- Consultation closes on August 25th, 2026.