Brexit – the story for employers so far
The UK electorate voted to leave the European Union in a referendum on 23 June 2016. The legal process for exiting the EU began when the UK notified of its intention to withdraw under Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty on 29 March 2017. The UK and the EU had two years to decide on the terms of the withdrawal, particularly the extent of the UK’s access to the single market versus the degree to which EU workers retain freedom of movement to the UK.
On 21 March 2019, eight days before the scheduled departure date, the EU offered to delay Brexit until 22 May if MPs approve the deal that has been negotiated. If they could not, a no-deal Brexit would happen on 12 April.
On 11 April, the EU allowed a “flexible extension” to 31 October 2019. Boris Johnson, who took over as prime minister in July, had vowed to leave the EU by that date “do or die”, having negotiated a new deal with the EU. However on 28 October 2019, the EU agreed to extend Brexit again, this time to 31 January 2020.
Our Brexit pages provide news and guidance on all aspects of the UK’s exit from the EU.
Immigration: MAC recommends lower salary threshold after Brexit
The salary threshold for skilled migrant workers entering the UK should be lowered to £25,600 to make it more affordable...
Fast-track ‘Global Talent’ visas for top scientists unveiled
“Top” international scientists, mathematicians and researchers will be able to apply to work in the UK under a fast-track visa...
CBI leads 40 industry bodies calling for salary threshold rethink
Industry pressure grows to cut migrant salary threshold ahead of key migration report.
PM considers scrapping £30,000 migrant salary threshold
The proposed £30,000 minimum salary threshold for migrant workers after Brexit is expected to be scrapped, it has been reported....
Migrants face less discrimination than their adult children
The UK-born children of migrants feel they are more discriminated against than new migrants and are more likely to be unemployed.
Brexit: What will happen on 1 February 2020?
After much delay, the UK will leave the European Union at 11:00pm on 31 January. But with the arrangements for...
20 immigration issues to watch in the 2020s
The UK immigration system is set for significant change in the coming years. Jamie Kerr offers 20 insights into what this may mean.
2020 employment law: Eight action points for HR
The new year begins with a new government, the prospect of Brexit and a number of employment law developments already...
Australia rejects visa-free immigration deal with UK
The Australian government is not keen on the idea of an influx of unskilled UK labour heading Down Under after Brexit.
‘Protect workers’ rights after Brexit’, voters urge Boris Johnson
Two-thirds of people who voted Conservative in the 2019 general election want the new government to protect or enhance workers’...
Queen’s Speech: flexible working, carers’ leave and immigration plan confirmed
A number of new Bills that will affect workers have been announced.
Post-Brexit judges’ powers plan prompts workers’ rights fears
Reports that the government’s Brexit bill will allow more UK judges to challenge the rulings of the Europe’s highest court...
Employment experts react to Conservative election win
IR35, pensions, immigration and workers' rights were among the initial areas of concern for specialists reacting to the employment agenda in the wake of the Tory win.
Brexit fears slash a third of seasonal travel jobs
Fears over Brexit have led to the loss of a third of UK seasonal jobs in ski resorts and summer...
Hiring plans for Q1 weakest in seven years
Employers’ hiring intentions are at their weakest in seven years with Brexit uncertainty, the general election and a slowing global...
