Angela Rayner gives even more rights to small boat migrants - they can sue

Angela Rayner has introduced new employment rights that expand the ability of small-boat migrants to sue employers for harassment, even if they are working in the UK without a valid permit. The Housing Secretary rolled out the Employment Rights Act on Friday, October 30, alongside fresh guidance from the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC). The EHRC says bosses must take “all reasonable steps” to prevent sexual and other harassment, including in cases involving “a migrant worker without a valid work permit.” It adds that an employment tribunal can hear harassment claims even when the employment contract is illegal due to lack of permission. The shift follows a September 2026 ruling where Erin Ong won more than £5,000 in compensation for discrimination.