Angela Rayner’s Dance with Flexible Work: Battling for a Four-Day Week Amidst Tory Opposition

'Angela Raver' geared up for battle on four-day workweek plan as Tories stir up adversaries

The Deputy Prime Minister considers herself a protector of the core values of the Labour Party, especially workers' rights, and is fully prepared to take on the challenge of the four-day workweek proposal.

Senior political reporter @joncraig

Friday, August 30, 2024, 10:

For optimal video playback, it is recommended to utilize the Chrome browser.

Images have emerged of Angela Rayner dancing energetically at a club in Ibiza, illustrating that the Deputy Prime Minister knows how to unwind during her leisure time.

After all, it was the month of August.

Earlier in the day, she led a meeting in Whitehall focused on construction safety, then flew to a vacation spot in Spain.

As "Angela Raver" relished the concluding moments of Parliament's summer break under the Balearic sun, her political rivals back home criticized her for overly simplifying the process for others to secure vacation time.

For an optimized video experience, it is recommended to use the Chrome browser.

Under the proposed reforms spearheaded by Ms. Rayner, known as the Make Work Pay initiative, several changes to employment regulations are on the table. These include eliminating zero-hours contracts, banning the practice of fire-and-rehire, and repealing Conservative anti-strike legislation. Additionally, these reforms would empower workers to request a four-day workweek.

The government denies these claims.

A Whitehall official stated, "There are currently no intentions to mandate a four-day work week for either employers or employees."

However, government officials are suggesting plans to simplify the process of adopting flexible work schedules.

Jacqui Smith, the ex-home secretary who unexpectedly returned as an education minister following the July election, states that flexible work schedules, which she refers to as "compressed hours" — a term she criticizes as terrible jargon — are beneficial for productivity.

Thus, rather than the usual eight-hour shifts over five days, you might opt for 10-hour shifts across four days. This way, you maintain the same workload while reducing child care requirements and increasing family time.

Does that seem logical to you?

Kevin Hollinrake, the Conservative Party's shadow business secretary, has criticized the deputy prime minister's suggestions, labeling them as "French-style union laws." He also mentioned that these proposals have left businesses in a state of fear.

Has anyone reminded Mr. Hollinrake about the 2019 Conservative manifesto under Boris Johnson, which pledged to promote flexible working arrangements? Or have the Conservatives perhaps overlooked this commitment?

During a discussion on Sky News, Mr. Hollinrake emphasized a significant distinction between the Conservative and Labour plans, pointing out that the Conservative proposal merely permits employees to ask for leave, which employers have the right to deny.

It seems that way. There appears to be a recurring theme developing throughout the week.

Initially, Rishi Sunak suggested stringent measures on smoking, which was subsequently adopted by Labour, and now the Conservatives are criticizing the strategy.

Stay informed with the most recent updates from the UK and international news by tuning into Sky News.

Regarding flexible working… Indeed, it's the same situation.

Is this just opposition for the sake of it? That seems to be the case.

The most significant challenge to Labour’s proposed changes to employment policy is likely to arise not from the Conservative Party, but rather from influential figures in the business community, including allies such as Peter Mandelson. This could happen if they convince Sir Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves to abandon the initiative.

Major corporations have begun their lobbying efforts. In an interview with Sky News, Mr. Hollinrake stated that the leaders of retail giants Marks and Spencer and Asda have expressed their concerns, claiming that Labour's proposals for flexible working are impractical.

Regarding the Labour party member who became known for her dance moves, she expressed pride in her endurance during 12-hour dance marathons at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival last August.

Discover more: Seasoned Labour member features on the Electoral Dysfunction podcast. Newly elected Labour MP proposes adjustments to reductions in winter fuel allowances. Ex-reporter set to lead UUP once again.

Stay ahead with the latest Breaking News

Download the Sky News application at no cost

Her dance moves certainly surpass those of Michael Gove, although that’s hardly a challenge.

Similar to ex-Labour deputy leader John Prescott, Angela Rayner views herself as a protector of the party’s core principles, such as labor rights.

Prescott was actively involved in trade union activities, back when he worked on Cunard ships.

Another common trait shared by the two Labour deputy prime ministers is their prowess in dancing. Prescott, along with his graceful wife Pauline, was well-known for their impressive dance moves at events during Labour conferences.

In addition to her marathon overnight parties, Ms. Rayner discussed at the Fringe her preferred potent mixed drink, which includes vodka, Southern Comfort, Blue WKD, and orange juice.

Titled "Venom," this film delivers a potent impact, much like the current and previous deputy prime ministers did back in 2001.

If Angela Rayner's demands for flexible working are not met, her adversaries should brace themselves for a fierce response.

Associated Subjects

Footer of Sky News

Information on Sky News

Services Provided by Sky News

Channels on Sky

Additional Sky Websites