Louise Haigh MP Fighting for Sheffield's future
The government has today (7th July) announced that they will bring forward legislation in the Employments Rights Bill that will ban the use of Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) in cases of harassment and discrimination.
This announcement follows the amendment that was tabled by Louise Haigh MP in April which called for a ban on NDAs in these circumstances and is a huge victory for campaign groups and victims.
Ms. Haigh has been working with campaign groups Can’t By My Silence, led by Zelda Perkins, and 38 Degrees and celebrities, including Rebecca Ferguson, who was forced to sign an NDA by a management company.
Last month Louise was joined by Zelda and Rebecca, as they handed in a petition to Number 10 signed by 92,719 people calling on the government to ban the use of NDAs and protect victims. Today, the government has heeded that call and are taking action.
An NDA is a legally binding contract designed to prevent individuals or organisations from disclosing sensitive information. While originally intended to protect trade secrets and intellectual property, NDAs are now widely used in civil settlements. Some lawyers estimate they are included in over 90% of such settlements, covering cases involving sexual assault, harassment, racial discrimination, disability and pregnancy discrimination, LGBTQ+ discrimination, bullying, and other workplace misconduct.
Louise Haigh MP for Sheffield Heeley, said:
“The Government’s decision to ban NDAs in cases of harassment and discrimination is an incredible victory for victims and campaigners. Victims of harassment and discrimination have been forced to suffer in silence for too long.
“This legislation is the result of years of tireless campaigning by victims and advocates. This victory belongs to them. Organisations like Can’t Buy My Silence, led by the indefatigable Zelda Perkins, have exposed the harm caused by this toxic practice.
“Today’s announcement will mean that bad employers can no longer hide behind legal practices that cover up their wrongdoing and prevent victims from getting justice.”