Queen’s Speech 2013: Employment Agenda

On 8 May 2013, the Queen marked the state opening of parliament by delivering her speech setting out the Government’s legislative agenda.

On 8 May 2013, the Queen marked the state opening of parliament by delivering her speech setting out the Government’s legislative agenda. Although there are fewer employment proposals than in recent years, there are a number of items which will be of interest:

• The National Insurance Contributions Bill - this will introduce an “Employment Allowance” of £2000 to reduce employers’ NI contributions bill, restrict the use of offshore payroll companies and remove the presumption of self-employment for LLP members;
• The Deregulation Bill – this will repeal the Employment Tribunal’s power to make wider recommendations in discrimination cases. It will also encourage the use of apprenticeships;
• The Immigration Bill – this will introduce tougher penalties for employers who employ workers who do not have the right to work in the UK.