The Queen’s Speech, setting out the legislation the Government intends to progress in future Parliamentary sessions, contained some employment law aspects, but not all of the commitments in the manifesto. The briefing notes show that legislation promised includes: a Data Protection Bill (p46) which will replace the Data Protection Act 1998 and implement the EU General Data Protection Regulation; and, increasing the national living wage to 60% of median earnings by 2020 (p67). Page 68 indicates that the Taylor Review of Modern Employment Practices will help the Government understand if working rights need to be modernised to keep up with new ways of working. Page 69 states an intention to make further progress in tackling the gender pay gap and discrimination because of race, faith, gender, disability or sexual orientation, but no details are provided.

This update provides summary information and comment on the subject areas covered. Where employment tribunal and appellate court cases are reported, the information does not set out all of the facts, the legal arguments presented and the judgments made in every aspect of the case. Click on the links to access full details. If no link is provided, contact us for more information.  Employment law is subject to constant change either by statute or by interpretation by the courts. While every care has been taken in compiling this information, SM&B cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. Specialist legal advice must be taken on any legal issues that may arise before embarking upon any formal course of action.