The UK government announced on Monday plans to ban the use of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) that prevent employees from speaking out about workplace harassment or discrimination. The move is part of a wider overhaul of employment protections under the proposed Employment Rights Bill.
In a statement, the government said it would introduce amendments to the bill currently progressing through Parliament. These changes would render void any confidentiality clauses in settlement or other agreements that aim to silence individuals who have experienced harassment — including sexual harassment — or discrimination at work.
“If passed, this legislation will ensure that no worker is legally bound to remain silent about abuse or discrimination they’ve faced,” the government said.
Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner emphasized the importance of this reform: “We’ve listened to victims who have been gagged by NDAs and it’s time to put an end to this harmful practice. The Employment Rights Bill will ban NDAs used to cover up misconduct, so no one is forced to suffer in silence.”
First unveiled in October, the Employment Rights Bill is being touted as the most significant upgrade to workers’ rights in a generation.