The Commons Select Committee on Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy ( ‘BEIS’ previously known as ‘BIS’) has confirmed that an inquiry into the future world of work is to be undertaken. The inquiry will be looking in to the rights and status of agency workers, those who are self-employed, and those working in the ‘gig economy’. The ‘gig economy’ is the term now commonly being used to describe an environment in which temporary positions are common, and where organisations contract with independent workers for short-term engagements.
Overall, as we know the world of work is evolving and changing, and the BEIS Committee will explore the status and rights of workers ahead of its report to be entitled, “The future world of work – the status and rights of workers”. It is believed that the inquiry also intends to consider other issues such as working conditions, and low-pay.
Recent cases including the practices at Sports Direct, and the case regarding the status of Uber drivers have highlighted some of the pressing issues that are to be considered by the inquiry. (The Uber case is considered further in another post by Peach Law).
The committee is calling on “all interested parties” to respond to a consultation on the issues, including whether “the balance of benefits between worker and employer [is] appropriate” for agency and casual workers, and whether there should be “steps taken to constrain the use by businesses of agency workers”.
Written submissions can be made by clicking here:
We are sure that the outcome of the inquiry shall make for interesting reading and Peach Law shall provide further updates on this once they are available. In the meantime, and as always should you have any questions arising out of this article, please do not hesitate to contact Lindsey or Sarah within our employment law team on 0161 478 3800 or on hello@peachlaw.co.uk
