Labour’s Sir Keir Starmer vows not to back down on more red tape for businesses
LABOUR leader Sir Keir Starmer has vowed not to back down on more red tape for businesses.
He is set to hold talks with union leaders today, pushing ahead with new rules supporting workers.
A plan to give staff the “right to switch off”, banning zero-hour contracts and giving more protection against being fired will be at the heart of talks.
But Sir Keir insisted yesterday there would be “no watering down” of Labour’s New Deal for Working People — insisting it will boost the economy.
He said: “Every good employer knows that to get better economic growth we need to treat our workforce properly.”
Sir Keir says the plan presents “no threat” to bosses, adding “good employers are doing much of this already”.
He said: “So no watering down, 100 per cent committed to it — and it is about respect and dignity but it’s also about economic growth and taking our country forward.”
Legislation will be brought forward within 100 days if the party wins the General Election.
Labour endured a backlash from unions earlier this month when it was reported the policies will go through a formal consultation, potentially seeing delays or plans toned down.
Businesses have also been demanding concessions, but Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves said she was committed to delivering the package in full.