Pressure Mounts on Government to Act on Zero-Hours Contracts
By Editor • September 12, 2026 • 1 min read
The UK's government is facing renewed pressure to implement its promised reforms on zero-hours contracts, as union leaders challenge the business lobby's resistance to the proposed changes. Paul Nowak, the General Secretary of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), is set to address these concerns at the upcoming TUC Congress in Brighton.
Nowak argues that the pushback from certain business groups, particularly in the hospitality sector, is based on unfounded claims that overlook the real impact on workers. He asserts that the government must prioritize the welfare of low-paid, precarious workers who often face uncertainty regarding their earnings and working hours.
“It’s time for the government to face down the business lobbyists and deliver its zero-hours crackdown in full,” Nowak stated. He emphasized that legitimate employers should not fear the reforms, which aim to create a fairer working environment and eliminate exploitative practices.
A government spokesperson reinforced this commitment, stating that they are dedicated to ending exploitative zero-hours contracts that place financial burdens on workers. The spokesperson noted that extensive consultations with trade unions and businesses have taken place to ensure that the reforms will be effective and beneficial for workers nationwide.
Source: www.independent.co.uk
#government reform #Paul Nowak #TUC #workers' rights #zero-hours contracts
