Taylor Review outlines “seven principles for good quality work for all”

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The government’s independent reviewer on modern employment practices, Matthew Taylor, has published his seven principles to achieve “good quality work for all.”

The review recommends that the government implements strategies to make sure workers don’t get stuck on National Living Wage; that people who work for platform-based companies, such as Uber, be classed as dependent contractors; implementing a national strategy to provide good work for all “for which government needs to be held accountable”; and that the government should avoid further increasing the non-wage costs of employing a person, such as the apprenticeship levy.

The report aimed to set out a plan for a UK economy that truly works for everyone, creating more skilled, well-paid jobs to boost the nation’s earning power and productivity.

Speaking about his review, Taylor said, “Our national performance on the quantity of work is strong.”

“But quantity alone is not enough for a thriving economy and fair society.”

“We believe now is the time to complement that commitment to creating jobs with the goal of creating better jobs.”

“The Review calls on the government to adopt the ambition that all work should be fair and decent with scope for fulfilment and development.”

Taylor concluded, “If we want citizens who are engaged, responsible, active, who – to coin a phrase – ‘take back control’, we should encourage those same virtues in the workplace.”

“Our idea of what it is to be a respected citizen should not stop at the office or factory door.”

Prime Minister Theresa May said, “The nature of employment is central both to our national economic success but also to the lives we all lead.”

“From the end of our childhoods until the years of retirement, if we don’t win the National Lottery jackpot, the vast majority of us will expect to devote at least half of our waking hours, on most days of the week, to work.”

“A good job can be a genuine vocation, providing intellectual and personal fulfilment, as well as economic security.”

She continued saying, “As the world of work changes, our practices and laws must properly reflect and accommodate those changes.”

“Because good work is in the interests of good business.”

“We know that flexible working opportunities help to ensure that employers don’t miss out on the talents and skills of those who would otherwise be unable to fit with the regular nine to five.”

“That investment in learning and progression for staff is not just valuable for employees, but also helps to boost productivity.”

“If we are to deliver our vision for Britain as a high-wage, high-skill economy then we know that we have to invest in good work.”

She concluded, “At this critical time in our history, we can either be timid or we can be bold.”

“We can play it safe or we can strike out with renewed courage and vigour, making the case for our ideas and values and challenging our opponents to contribute, not just criticise.”

“I think this country needs a government that is prepared to take the bold action necessary to secure a better future for Britain and we are determined to be that government.”

“In everything we do, we will act with an unshakable sense of purpose to build the better, fairer Britain which we all want to see.”

However, the review has faced widespread criticism. Trade unions have slammed the report for its stance on the gig economy. Unite said that the review had “spectacularly failed to deliver” on its promise to tackle the problem of insecure work.

The Fawcett Society Chief Executive, Sam Smethers said, “Given that the majority of low paid workers are women, often in insecure employment the test of the Taylor review is will it deliver for them?”

“Improving access to maternity, parental leave and sickness benefits for those currently not covered is welcome, but without enforcement it won’t deliver.”

“Tightening regulations isn’t red tape.”

“Rather it is fair to responsible employers who play by the rules.”

About the author

Alison is the Digital Content Editor for WeAreTheCity. She has a BA Honours degree in Journalism and History from the University of Portsmouth. She has previously worked in the marketing sector and in a copywriting role. Alison’s other passions and hobbies include writing, blogging and travelling.
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