Member

Finally, I turn to Lords amendments 6 and 12, which would exempt SMEs and charities. Throughout the passage of the Bill, many have warned about the cumulative burden that this Government are placing on smaller employers. Just listen to their record so far—it is the record of a Government burdening our economy. There is the compliance and regulatory obligations mandated by the Employment Rights Act 2025; an increase in employer NICs of 15%—the jobs tax; the uncertainty around the national minimum wage being equalised for young people under 21; the heightened anxiety around business rates; and, worst of all, the constant U-turns and endless drama from this Government. Altogether, this is making it incredibly difficult for SMEs and charities to thrive.