Employment rights reforms ‘could cost UK businesses £5bn a year’

Government analysis says those on low pay stand to benefit most, with some potentially earning extra 600 a year

Employment rights reforms could cost businesses up to 5bn a year, according to the government's own analysis, which also found the changes will benefit low-paid employees the most, with some shift workers potentially earning an extra 600 a year.

In the analysis the government acknowledges that businesses will end up paying more, including for changes to sick pay, paternity leave and zero-hours contracts as well as on administrative costs.