Overview

The Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Bill aims to establish minimum service levels during strikes in essential public services. The bill has undergone several amendments in the House of Lords regarding consultation and parliamentary oversight before the final version was agreed.

Description

The bill allows the government to set minimum service levels during strikes in key sectors. This means a certain percentage of workers must continue working even during strike action. The final version of the bill mandates several key steps before minimum service regulations can be made:

• Publication of draft regulations.
• Consultation with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and consideration of their advice.
• Conducting an impact assessment addressing effects on the public, service delivery, and the right to strike.
• Consultation with trade unions, employers, and other interested parties, specifically addressing worker protection and the definition of "reasonable steps" a union must take.
• Parliamentary reporting on ILO advice and consultations.
• Submission of the impact assessment and consultation reports to a Joint Committee of both Houses of Parliament for review and publication of their findings.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending figures. The costs will likely relate to the administrative processes involved in consultations, impact assessments, and parliamentary reviews. Additional costs may arise from potential legal challenges.

Groups Affected

• Trade Unions: The bill significantly impacts unions' ability to organize and conduct strikes, potentially limiting their effectiveness.
• Workers: Workers in essential services may face pressure to work during strikes, even if they choose to participate in the strike action.
• Employers: Employers in affected sectors will have to manage staff during minimum service levels.
• The Public: The bill aims to maintain essential services during strikes, potentially mitigating disruption to public services, but it could also lead to legal challenges and disputes.
• Parliament: Increased workload due to the bill's requirements for reporting and review.

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