New powers to curb strike disruption passed by MPs 

A new bill aimed at enforcing minimum service levels for some sectors during strikes has been backed and passed by MPs. 

The bill means some employees in industries such as rail and the emergency services would be required to work during strike action – and could be sacked if they refuse. 

The bill passed by 315 votes to 246. The bill will now head to the House of Lords to face further scrutiny before it becomes law. 

Labour has slammed the proposal saying it rips up protections against unfair dismissal. 

Labour’s deputy Angela Rayner said the bill would give the secretary of state the power to threaten key workers with the sack “on his whim.” 

Unions have also criticised the bill as an attack on the right to strike and have threatened legal action if it passes. 

‘Britain’s wave of industrial action’ 

The country is facing a wave of industrial action, with unions calling for an increase in pay to keep up with the rising cost of living crisis. 

The bill will not impact the current strikes as it still needs to be passed by the Lords, where it is expected to face more opposition.

The bill applies to England, Scotland and Wales and would mean ministers would have the power to set minimum service levels for fire, ambulance and rail services. 

Other services, including health and transport, education, border security and nuclear decommissioning are also covered by the bill, but the government hopes to reach voluntary agreements for these sectors. 

The minimum level of service required for each sector will be decided following a consultation. 

Employers will then be able to issue a “work notice” to unions, setting out who is required to work during a strike. 

The bill means there would be no automatic protection from unfair dismissal for an employee who is told to work through a notice but chooses to strike. 

If a strike is not conducted in accordance with the new rules, employers would also be able to sue unions for losses.