Nautilus International welcomes government pledge to end unfair employment practices

Maritime minister Mike Kane has reiterated the government's commitment to protect workers' rights and end the type of unfair employment practices seen at P&O Ferries, in a recent speech to maritime industry stakeholders at the Labour Party Conference in Liverpool.

Minister Kane recounted how, two years ago, he was present in the House of Commons when P&O Ferries fired its employees and forcibly removed them from ships using security guards.

'We won't allow that to ever happen again,' he declared.

The maritime minister emphasised that the government believes work should be a pillar upon which people can build their lives, and that dignity and respect in the workplace are essential.

'The government’s Employment Rights Bill will end one-sided flexibility, such as zero-hour contracts, and ensure all jobs provide a baseline level of security and predictability,' he told attendees at the Maritime UK event.

Nautilus International general secretary Mark Dickinson said: 'Our members were appalled by the way P&O Ferries treated its loyal workforce, and we have been calling for robust action to prevent such disgraceful actions from happening again.

'We are encouraged to hear the government's firm commitment to empowering trade unions and enshrining comprehensive rights and protections for workers.

'This is exactly the kind of approach that is needed to restore dignity and fairness in the maritime industry.'

'However, the Employment Rights Bill is yet to be published and the devil will be in the detail. The government must back up its commitment to a mandatory seafarers charter, this is vital to ensure pay and conditions for seafarers that are reflective of local standards, not international minimums.'

The minister also stressed the vital role that ports and maritime will play as the UK looks to rebuild its economy and transition to a greener future. He encouraged the industry to unlock the growth potential of coastal communities while ensuring workers are treated with the respect and security they deserve.

What is the UK Employment Rights Bill?

The Institute of Employment Rights (IER) has put together a handy resource hub including a briefing on what the Bill proposes, what it considers are 'worrying trapdoors', suggested amendments, and other resources on the Employment Rights Bill (ERB) 2024.

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Find out more about the ERB