Government to outline major overhaul of workers' rights
The Government is preparing a significant overhaul of workers' rights, introducing several new measures aimed at improving job security and flexibility for millions of employees. Key changes include the removal of the two-year qualifying period for unfair dismissal protection, enabling workers to receive statutory sick pay (SSSP) from their first day of illness, and giving fathers access to paternity leave from day one of employment. Also, workers will be entitled to unpaid parental and bereavement leave from day one, and employers will be expected to consider flexible working requests immediately. However, the bill has faced criticism for delays and certain measures being watered down. Small business owners have expressed concerns over the potential impact on hiring decisions, probation periods, and the management of zero-hours contracts. Trade unions have welcomed the changes but insist more needs to be done.
Tory leadership race: Cleverly out, Jenrick and Badenoch final two
In a surprising turn, on 9 October James Cleverly was eliminated from the Conservative Party leadership race, leaving Robert Jenrick and Kemi Badenoch as the final contenders. On 9 October, when Tory MPs voted, Badenoch regained her position as the favourite, receiving 42 votes, while Jenrick followed closely with 41 votes. Cleverly, who had gained momentum after the Conservative Party conference, had led the previous day’s ballot with 39 votes, but only secured 37 votes and so failed to advance. Both Badenoch and Jenrick represent the right wing of the party, and key issues in the final race are expected to include immigration and the UK's membership in the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). Jenrick is for leaving the ECHR, while Badenoch prefers a review, with the possibility of leaving if necessary. The result sets up a contest between two candidates offering distinct visions for the future. The outcome, to be decided by the votes of party members, will be announced on 2 November.
Investigation into surgeon now includes four more hospitals
An investigation into concerns surrounding orthopaedic surgeon Yaser Jabbar has expanded to include four more London hospitals. Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) had launched a review of 721 children treated by him after concerns were raised about his care. The inquiry now involves three private hospitals as well as Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. An investigation in 2022, conducted by the Royal College of Surgeons, found significant concerns regarding Mr Jabbar's medical practice. Out of the 37 cases reviewed, 22 children were harmed, with thirteen suffering severe harm. Families of affected patients have raised concerns over the lack of documentation and governance in his decision-making processes. Solicitor Caroline Murgatroyd, representing the families, has called for full transparency across all hospitals where he worked. Mr Jabbar, who no longer holds a UK medical licence, now resides in Dubai.
Scottish Labour stunned by rebellion on winter fuel payments
Two Scottish Labour MPs have surprised their leader Anas Sarwar by voting against the party line in support of a non-binding motion urging the UK government to reverse cuts to the winter fuel payment. The motion, proposed by first minister John Swinney, was passed by a large majority, with members of all other parties, including the Scottish Conservatives, backing it. Making this payment dependent on means testing, part of a broader debate about austerity measures inherited from the Conservative government, is opposed by the SNP. Sarwar defended Labour’s position, arguing that the Chancellor did not want to cut the payment but was constrained by the economic challenges left by the previous administration. However, critics have warned that the cuts would force many elderly citizens to choose between heating and eating this winter.
