Labour MPs push UK government for four-day week amendment

A coalition of over a dozen Labour MPs and one Green MP are advocating for the inclusion of a four-day working week in the government's Employment Rights Bill, aiming for a transition without a reduction in pay. This amendment, proposed by Labour MP Peter Dowd, seeks to establish a new body to explore how the UK can shift from a traditional five-day workweek, leveraging advancements in technology to enhance productivity and worker well-being. Supporters argue that a four-day, 32-hour workweek is not only feasible but is already being successfully implemented by more than 200 UK companies. They cite evidence that shorter working weeks can lead to improved work-life balance, increased productivity, and reduced employee burnout. Critics, however, raise concerns about the financial implications of paying full-time salaries for shorter hours. The push for this reform comes amid broader discussions about worker rights and flexible working arrangements in the UK.