Banter and harassment

An extension of workers' rights, designed to further protect them from harassment on the job, has been criticised as an attack on free speech.

The Employment Rights Bill, first tabled in October 2024, would make it an employer's responsibility to prevent harassment of their staff by customers, clients and members of the public, as well as fellow colleagues.

Some argue the bill, which is not yet law, would effectively outlaw banter - particularly in settings like pubs - and pressure companies to more closely monitor conversations. Others welcome the plans, arguing that workplace harassment is rife and that banter is often used as an excuse for discriminatory and upsetting behaviour.

We go through the proposed changes, look at examples where banter has been used as a defence in court, and explore the origins and evolution of the word itself.

Presenter: Adam Fleming Producers: Simon Tulett, Tom Gillett, Nik Sindle Production coordinator: Janet Staples Editor: Penny Murphy