MPs Push for Four-Day Workweek in New Workers' Rights Legislation

A Push for a Four-Day Workweek in the UK

A group of 13 MPs, including 12 Labour and one Green, are advocating for the government to consider a four-day workweek as part of new workers' rights legislation. They propose establishing a body to investigate implementing a four-day week across the entire economy.

This initiative aligns with the growing popularity of shorter working patterns in the UK. Over 200 companies have already adopted a four-day workweek permanently, with most employees working 32 hours or less per week. Proponents argue that this leads to increased happiness, reduced burnout, and greater productivity.

The amendment acknowledges the increasing demand for less strenuous work schedules, particularly in contrast to large corporations like JP Morgan and Amazon, which are mandating full-time office returns after allowing hybrid work during the pandemic. This move contradicts the 4 Day Week Foundation's campaign, which prioritizes employee well-being over working hours.

The campaign director of the 4 Day Week Foundation, Joe Ryle, emphasizes the distinction between compressing work into four days and a genuine four-day week with no pay reduction. He highlights the need for exploring a truly shorter workweek, which aligns with the desires of many workers and has proven successful for numerous companies and a local council.

While the government has expressed no intention to modify its workers' rights package, the growing support for a four-day workweek suggests that this conversation is far from over.