The TUC said the withdrawal of the bill from the Queen’s speech next month would “betray” the workers. The unions are pushing for the promised bill to improve workers’ rights. They believe it would help prevent a repeat of the layoffs of nearly 800 P&O Ferries. The Financial Times reported that there will be no employment bill in the Queen’s speech on May 10, citing government officials. TUC Secretary-General Frances O’Grady said: “The Prime Minister has promised to make Britain the best place to work in the world. Time and time again, he said he would pass new laws to protect and enhance workers’ rights. “But Boris Johnson seems to have broken his word once again by failing to pass the employment bill. “Make no mistake – this would be a betrayal of the workers. What happened at P&O should have marked a turning point for workers’ rights, but by abandoning the employment bill, the government is sending a message that it is happy for fraudulent employers to treat staff like dirt. “We need action now to strengthen workers’ protection and to stop exploitation such as fire and re-employment and zero-hour contracts. “Climbing the edge with weak legislation will not have the bad bosses trembling in their boots.” Labor Vice President Angela Reiner accused the government of “breaking another promise.” She wrote on Twitter: “The employment bill was proposed in the Queen’s speech three years ago after the outrage over working conditions in factories and warehouses in the UK. “After the P&O scandal it is even more urgent.” The government has approached for a comment.
