Labour has paved the way for a potential four-day work week across the UK, with Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner dropping opposition to shorter work schedules for councils. In a significant shift, Rayner voiced her support for the concept, arguing that flexible work arrangements are “no threat to the economy.” Her comments came after South Cambridgeshire District Council’s four-day work week trial extended beyond its initial period, showing positive results for staff productivity and well-being.
Initially, the Conservative government had raised concerns about the shorter week, questioning whether it would reduce public service capacity by up to 20%. Conservative ministers issued notices in 2023 and 2024 opposing the measure, warning it could affect the council’s ability to fulfill its Best Value Duty and efficiently serve local needs. However, Rayner’s recent statement highlights Labour’s new stance: councils should have the freedom to determine work arrangements without government interference.
South Cambridgeshire’s trial was closely monitored, with Councillor Bridget Smith noting that “200 pieces of raw data” were submitted to support the shorter week’s efficacy. The council reported savings in taxpayer money, better staff retention, and improvements in employee health. Under the current structure, council employees are expected to complete their full workload within 80% of the traditional hours for the same pay. There have been no reported reductions in service hours for residents.
In parallel, London’s Transport for London (TfL) is considering a four-day week for its tube drivers following union negotiations to reduce the standard workweek. TfL’s proposal is still in development but is aimed at enhancing both employee satisfaction and service reliability. According to a TfL spokesperson, any new schedule must be “mutually beneficial” and maintain high service standards.
As Labour warms to the four-day work week model, political leaders and the public will closely watch these experiments. If successful, the four-day week could expand to other public sectors, potentially reshaping the traditional UK work model and setting a precedent for improved work-life balance.
