Coastal town workers to benefit from new employment rights agenda, says minister

Workers in coastal communities such as Llandudno are set to gain from stronger protections and greater financial security under the Government’s new employment rights agenda, Employment Rights Minister Justin Madders said during a visit to North Wales on Thursday (21st August).

Speaking with workers and business owners in the tourism sector, Madders outlined how reforms in the forthcoming Employment Rights Bill will affect seaside economies, which support thousands of jobs and generate billions of pounds in revenue each year.

The Bill will introduce measures to end exploitative zero-hours contracts by giving eligible workers the right to guaranteed hours, based on the number of hours they typically work, and new rights to reasonable notice of shifts.

Employers will also be required to provide proportionate compensation when shifts are cancelled, moved or cut at short notice.

Madders said: “If workers have the money in their pockets to spend on holiday, we know that coastal towns like Llandudno can thrive and grow, benefitting both businesses and workers alike.

“That’s why, whether they’re staffing a stall on the seafront or serving tourists in local restaurants, we’re giving these workers the security and fair treatment they deserve – while creating the conditions for growth in partnership with business as part of our Plan for Change.”

The Minister said around 15 million workers across the country are expected to benefit from the Make Work Pay agenda, giving households greater financial stability and increasing consumer confidence.

He also confirmed that the Government will consult businesses on the detail of zero-hours reforms to ensure protections are implemented in practice without undermining flexibility in sectors such as hospitality.

Alongside employment rights reforms, small businesses in seaside towns will also be supported by the Government’s £4bn Plan for Small Businesses, which includes simplified licensing and new measures to improve access to finance.

Officials say this will help seasonal businesses invest in staff and manage cash flow during quieter periods.

The Government said the package would benefit workers and businesses in coastal destinations across the UK, strengthening local economies by ensuring fair treatment and greater security for those employed in seaside industries.