Chuka Umunna MP, Labour’s Shadow Business Secretary, commenting on new ONS statistics on the number of zero-hours contracts, said:

“The Tories’ plan is failing working families. While they prioritise a few at the top, for others there’s a rising tide of insecurity. Ministers have watered down every person’s rights at work and zero-hours contracts have gone from being a niche concept to becoming the norm in parts of our economy. The ONS’ findings today that there are now 1.8 million zero hours contracts and that the number of people reporting they are on a zero-hours contract for their main job has risen by almost 20 per cent is yet another stark illustration of a recovery which is not working for working people.

“Labour’s Better Plan for Britain’s Prosperity would ban exploitative zero-hours contracts, prohibit employers from requiring workers to be available on the off chance they are needed, ensure zero-hours contract workers who have shifts cancelled at short notice receive compensation and give employees who consistently work regular hours the right to a fixed-hours contract. Ministers have sat on their hands and opposed our plans, in the face of rising insecurity for people. Only Labour will deliver a recovery that works for all, restoring security and dignity at work.”