Government to repeal Strikes Act 2023 including requirements on minimum service levels

The Government has today (6 August) announced it will repeal the Strikes Act 2023, claiming that the measures “unduly restrict workers’ rights” and “undermine good industrial relations”.

Minimum service levels will be repealed through the Employment Rights Bill, which will be introduced within the first 100 days of the new Government, the Department for Business and Trade revealed.

The Government suggested hat no employer had used minimum service levels, and they had not resolved any strikes – “only inflamed tensions”.

It added that companies should continue to look for “alternative mechanisms” to solve disputes through negotiation.

The Government revealed it has written to all 12 metro mayors across the country, “to start engaging with local employers on this upcoming change, being important partners in resetting relations with these vital sectors”.

Relevant ministers in the Department for Health and Social Care, Home Office, Department for Education, Department for Transport and Department for Energy Security and Net Zero have also been asked to engage with their relevant employers to inform them that the Government “strongly encourages” them to engage in discussion with trade unions, instead of using minimum service levels.  

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said: “Attempting to clamp down on the fundamental freedom of working people has got us nowhere and this was targeted at sectors who dedicate their lives to serving us all. 

“That’s why we’re scrapping this pointless law and creating a new partnership between business, trade unions and working people through our New Deal. 

“Repealing this legislation is the first part of our plan to reset industrial relations so they are fit for a modern economy.” 

Lottie Winson