Employment: Zero-hour Contracts

Debate between Viscount Younger of Leckie and Lord Roberts of Llandudno

Wednesday 23rd October 2013 Lords Chamber

[Viscount Younger of Leckie]

The noble Lord raises some very specific questions. I can confirm that zero-hours contracts are a legitimate form of employment and they were introduced in both Hansard and the catering departments to replace existing casual contracts, so there is an improvement there. The zero-hours contracts, when compared to the previous contracts, give staff the same employment rights as those enjoyed by full-time staff.

[Lord Roberts of Llandudno (LD)]

My Lords, when the Minister brings his report to the House, will he include those working in Parliament itself, especially catering department workers on zero-hour contracts?

[Viscount Younger of Leckie]

I believe that I have already given that reassurance and some examples to the House.