Trade union codes of practice laid before Parliament

09/07/2026

The government has laid three codes of practice relating to trade union access rights, unfair practices during a recognition or derecognition process, and time off for trade union duties and activities. It laid the draft code of practice on the…

Skilled Worker visa applications to UK fall by almost 40%

09/07/2026

Applications for Skilled Worker visas have fallen by almost 40% over the past year, according to the latest Home Office figures, as employers continue to adjust to a more restrictive UK immigration system. Provisional statistics for the year ending 30…

Consultation launched on workplace monitoring technologies

09/07/2026

The government has launched a consultation on the use of workplace monitoring technologies in an effort to improve clarity, transparency and worker voice, supporting good industrial relations. Ministers are seeking views from businesses, trade unions, and the public on how…

World Cup: Starmer hints at bank holiday if England win

09/07/2026

Sir Keir Starmer is considering an additional bank holiday if England were to win the FIFA World Cup. The prime minister, who is widely expected to stand down on 20 July, said he “didn’t want to jinx it, but ask…

Employers urged to keep humans in charge of risk verification

08/07/2026

Employers are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence to verify risk information, but HR and business leaders are being warned not to rely on the technology alone as misinformation and deepfakes create new risks for employees. Research from International SOS found…

Sacked manager awarded £21k over handling of abusive customer

08/07/2026

A car dealership in Paignton unfairly and wrongfully dismissed an aftersales manager following a dispute with an aggressive customer who had harassed and abused his team members. In a case that highlights employers’ risks around third-party harassment, the employment tribunal…

Bank holidays: six things employers need to know

08/07/2026

Are employees entitled to extra pay for working on bank holidays? What does an employer do if an employee refuses to work on a bank holiday? How should bank holidays be managed for part-time employees? We explain how to deal…