Government Consultation to Close Loopholes in Zero-hour Contract Proposals

Business Secretary Vince Cable has this week launched a consultation into how best to tackle the problem of zero hour contracts. Cable is asking businesses, unions and individuals to help highlight and close potential ‘loopholes’ in the governments plan to outlaw the use of exclusivity clauses in zero hours contracts.

The government seeks to discover how a minority or employers could make attempts to get around the ban, for example by creating 1 hour contracts. The consultation looks to find the best ways to prevent this from happening and whether the public is of the general opinion that the government should take preemptive steps to prevent this.  

The government have proposed civil penalties that worker could seek to use if they have been treated unfairly by their worker because they have found other employment whilst under a zero hour contract.

Business Secretary, Vince Cable said:

“We are tightening the screws on rogue employers who try to abuse workers on zero hours contracts. We are looking closely at any potential loopholes that could arise from a ban, to ensure that these are closed off and no one can get round the new law.”

 Employment Solicitors in Glasgow

If you are an employee or employer looking for advice about zero hour contracts, or for any other employment law matter, Employment Law Glasgow's specialist lawyers can help. To get in touch, please complete our online enquiry form. You can also call 0141 811 0224.