Anti-strike bill: Shapps to get power to decide minimum service levels

Labour condemns business secretary's proposed powers over fire, ambulance and other public services

The business secretary, Grant Shapps, will be able to decide statutory minimum service levels for a string of public services, in terms of a new anti-strike bill condemned by Labour as likely to increase stoppages.

Unveiling details of the proposed law, Shapps said ministers would consult during the progress of the bill on what minimum services levels would be required for fire, ambulance and transport services, including rail.