Regulation of zero hours contracts

The Department for Enterprise sought views on a number of proposals to improve rights for those on zero hours contracts.

87 responses were received.

There was significant support for most of the proposals. However the Department recognises a number of specific concerns relating to the proposed day 1 obligation to provide written statements of employment particulars and to a lesser extent the right to request a stable contract.

The feedback to the proposals is discussed in further detail in the review document available below.

The Department is grateful to all who responded to the consultation.

The Department will bring forward legislation to implement the following proposals:

• Extension of the right to a written statement and itemised pay statements to workers;
• Regulation of contracts which provide one-sided obligations;
• Right to request a stable contract; and
• Day 1 obligation to provide written statements of employment particulars.

Most of the above proposals can be introduced by regulations made under the Employment Act 2006, though some minor amendments to the Act may be required. It should be noted that the regulations will require Tynwald approval.

In respect of the right to request a stable contract, it will be made clear that this measure merely creates the right to request such (much like similar provisions for requesting flexible working) and does not confer a right to have a stable contract. Additionally, should this change be approved by Tynwald, the Department will work with the Chamber of Commerce, and other employers representatives, to provide further guidance to employers on which grounds should be considered in determining such a request.

Similarly, given the concerns raised during the consultation in respect of the day 1 obligation to provide written statements of employment particulars, the Department will consider further the specific points raised ahead of bringing forward the relevant legislation.