Transport Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Bill

Key Points

• Applies to strikes that affect transport services (such as rail, bus, air and ports).
• Proposes a statutory framework for minimum service levels during industrial action.
• Could influence how strikes are run and which services must continue.
• Involves duties on employers and unions and may include enforcement mechanisms.
• At the Commons stage now, with past debate over Lords amendments showing cross-party disagreement about the approach.

Progress

The bill is at the first reading stage in the House of Commons and has not yet progressed to detailed scrutiny in this session. Earlier readings and Lords amendments have been part of its journey, with the Commons voting to disagree with Lords amendments in prior sessions.

Voting

In the recorded votes, government-aligned parties consistently backed the bill, while Labour and other opposition parties opposed. The votes showed large majorities in favour (typical aye counts around 280–305 vs no counts around 200–230), reflecting broad government support but Opposition opposition to the measure.