Reports suggest ministers are set to scrap plans for a legal right to ‘switch off’ outside work hours.
The proposal, a key element of Sir Keir Starmer’s “New Deal for Working People,” aimed to strengthen employment rights by allowing workers to ignore work-related emails and calls outside office hours. Inspired by similar policies in Ireland and Belgium, Labour had argued it would prevent home working from turning into a 24/7 commitment.
While the policy was not included in the current Employment Bill progressing through Parliament, ministers had previously indicated it could be introduced later. However, according to The Sunday Times, the Government is now expected to confirm its removal when amendments to the Bill are tabled later this week. A Government source reportedly stated, “The right to switch off is dead.”
The decision is said to be part of efforts to boost business confidence, following recent tax increases on businesses. The Government argues its focus is on economic growth.
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