UK government advances reforms on employment and housing

The UK government is implementing several regulatory reforms affecting employment, housing, and short-term rentals. A government impact assessment reveals that a crackdown on zero-hour contracts could cost businesses up to £2.9 billion annually. These reforms include requirements for guaranteed-hour contracts and compensation for cancelled shifts. The Federation of Small Business has criticized the approach, warning of potential unemployment risks.

Regarding housing, the government is reviewing measures to manage the impact of short-term lets. Proposed actions include abolishing the furnished holiday lets tax regime, increasing Stamp Duty Land Tax on additional dwellings, and empowering Mayors to introduce visitor levies. A mandatory national registration scheme for short-term lets is also planned.

Additionally, the government defended the existing powers of social housing landlords to address anti-social behaviour. Officials noted that the Crime and Policing Act and the Renters’ Rights Act provide tools to tackle issues such as noise nuisance, drug use, and vandalism, including faster eviction processes in certain cases.