UK Workers Need Legal Right to Know Colleagues’ Pay, Says Equality Watchdog

The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) is urging the UK government to give workers a legal right to know what their colleagues earn, in a bid to tackle pay discrimination, especially against women. The recommendation comes as part of the watchdog’s response to government proposals to overhaul equal pay laws. The EHRC argues that transparency is essential if employees suspect they are being paid less than others for similar work. Without access to pay information, it remains difficult for individuals to challenge unfair disparities. The move could help close the gender pay gap, which has persisted despite existing equal pay legislation. The government is currently considering reforms, and the EHRC’s input may shape future policy. If adopted, the change would mark a significant shift towards workplace pay transparency in the UK.