Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer is set to announce changes to his party’s workers’ rights agenda, aiming to balance trade union and business concerns, while also unveiling a new plan for processing asylum claims ahead of the general election.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer is expected to announce a revised package of workers’ rights under the “New Deal for Working People”, which originally included extensive reforms such as higher sick pay and the abolishment of “fire and rehire” practices. These reforms, designed to appeal to both trade unions and the business sector, have reportedly been moderated in response to business concerns, suggesting a potential delay in implementation and consultations before any legislative changes. The revisions have drawn criticism from union leaders who warn of severe consequences if Labour departs from its initial commitments. Despite modifications, the New Deal remains a key part of Labour’s agenda for the upcoming general election.
On another front, the Labour Party has proposed a plan to process the asylum claims of about 90,000 to 115,000 illegal migrants currently in the UK, a response to the backlog following the government’s Rwanda asylum scheme. The Conservative Party has criticised this plan, suggesting it might incentivize illegal crossings. The first detentions under the new Safety of Rwanda (Asylum and Immigration) Act have already begun, with the aim to start deportation flights by July.
These developments highlight Labour’s strategy adjustments in key policy areas of workers’ rights and immigration in the lead-up to the general election, reflecting ongoing debates and their potential impacts on future legislative actions.
