Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Zero hours contracts: Government to ban 'exclusivity clauses' for workers

TUC welcomes move, but claims 'it's not nearly enough to really tackle the problem'

Andrew Grice
Wednesday 25 June 2014 19:36 BST
Comments
Vince Cable will draw up a code of practice for employers to stamp out abuse
Vince Cable will draw up a code of practice for employers to stamp out abuse (Getty Images)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Plans to allow 125,000 workers on “exclusive” zero hours contracts work for other employers will be announced by the Government today.

Some employers include “exclusivity clauses” in the contracts, which offer no guaranteed hours for workers on standby. Such clauses will be banned in a Small Business Bill to be pushed through before next year's general election.

Vince Cable, the Business Secretary, will also draw up a code of practice for employers to stamp out abuse. It will single out the social care sector and ensure the estimated 1.4 million people on zero hours contracts know their legal rights.

Writing for The Independent, Mr Cable ruled out a total ban on the contracts, saying they serve the interests of students, older workers and single parents who value flexibility. But he added: “There have been numerous complaints that some rogue employers abuse that relationship and are creating a pool of casual- mostly low paid, low skill - employees.”

Video: Vince Cable announces clampdown on zero hours contracts

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in