Government response

Statement on ONS zero-hours contracts statistical release

The number of people reporting they are on a zero-hours contract as their main job has exceeded 900,000, according to the Office for National Statistaics (ONS).

A BEIS spokesperson said:

As the Prime Minister has made clear, we want to do more to build an economy that works for everyone and to help working people who are struggling to get by.

Since May last year, the use of exclusivity clauses has been unlawful, meaning that individuals have more control over their lives and can work more hours with another employer if they wish.

Fewer than 3% of the UK workforce classes itself as being on a zero hours contract in their main job, with almost 70% of those on this type of contract happy with the number of hours they work.

Published 8 September 2016