Consultation on unfair employment clauses which restrict extra work

The government is to consult on cracking down on unfair employment clauses in a move ministers said will ensure up to 1.8 million low paid employees can pick up extra work if they want to.

Plans were unveiled to tackle restrictive employment practices, aimed at giving workers more freedom over where and when they work·

The consultation will look at banning the use of exclusivity clauses in contracts, which prevent workers from taking on additional work with other employers.

The TUC accused the government of “tinkering around the edges”.

Ministers said the change would put more power into the hands of an estimated 1.8 million low paid workers to top-up their income with additional work if they want to.

The plans also look to reform the use of clauses which can prevent individuals from starting up or joining competing businesses after they leave a job.

Business Secretary Alok Sharma said: “We want to ensure every worker has the freedom and flexibility to work in the way they want, where they want, whether that's topping up their pay packet by taking on additional work, or being able to start their own business with the skills they've gained throughout their career.

“Today's reforms are another step on our path to making sure the UK is the best place in the world to work, start and grow a business as we build back better from the pandemic.”

TUC general secretary Frances O' grady said :“These changes are no substitute fora proper level ling up of rights at work.”