Overview

This bill aims to make unpaid trial work periods illegal in the UK. It mandates that individuals undertaking trial work periods must be paid at least the national minimum wage and sets out requirements for employers regarding transparency and providing feedback.

Description

The Unpaid Trial Work Periods (Prohibition) Bill seeks to eliminate the practice of employers requiring prospective employees to work unpaid as part of a trial period to assess their suitability. The bill defines a "trial work period" as any work performed to determine if an individual possesses the qualities for employment.

Employer Obligations:

If an employer uses a trial work period, they must:

• Inform the individual of the trial period's duration.
• Provide a job description outlining the qualities to be demonstrated.
• Specify the number of available jobs.
• Agree to provide feedback.
• Explain how the outcome of the trial will be communicated.

Payment Requirements:

Employers must pay trial work participants at least the national minimum wage. The bill amends the National Minimum Wage Act 1998 to incorporate this requirement.

Offences and Penalties:

Employers failing to meet the requirements of the bill, specifically regarding payment and transparency, will commit an offence under the National Minimum Wage Act 1998.

Scope and Commencement:

The bill applies across the UK (England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland) and comes into effect upon passage.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to directly increase or decrease government spending. However, there may be additional costs associated with enforcement and potential legal challenges.

Groups Affected

The bill will primarily affect:

• Employers: Employers will be subject to new legal obligations regarding unpaid trial work periods, potentially facing penalties for non-compliance.
• Job Seekers: Job seekers will be protected from exploitation and ensured fair remuneration for work performed during trial periods.
• Government enforcement agencies: These agencies will be responsible for enforcing the new legislation.

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