Reward and benefits professionals need to keep a wary eye on upcoming legislation

I doubt people will notice much change in their day-to-day lives from tomorrow, given we have an 11-month transition period. But now is the time for all those involved in HR, reward, pensions and employee rights in any form to be extra vigilant on what gets discussed in parliament and how any legislation might change.

Many employment rights are tied up in legislation linked to EU Directives. These may or may not change going forward, but there could be pressure from those keen to loosen a perceived grip from Europe to push for reduced protections.

Generally the UK has erred on the side of over delivering against EU Directives, so employees have been well protected. I do hope that way of thinking is not stripped away.

On the flip side, it is with great relief that legislation that was held up for so many years due to the debate around Brexit, such as the Pensions Bill, is finally advancing.

Whatever one’s view about the rights and wrongs of divorcing our large neighbour, it is happening and we need to embrace new responsibilities of making sure parliament delivers for all its people.

The author is Debi O’Donovan, director at REBA.