© Getty ImagesLabour's proposed workers' rights charter, expected to come into force next year, has so far proved controversial
The proposed legislation, which is expected to come into force next year, puts a duty on employers to prevent workers from being harassed by third parties such as customers.
That could prove difficult from employers to enforce, the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has warned, when it applies to more philosophical debates in venues like pubs, The Times reported.
The controversial charter risks becoming 'an adventure playground for employment rights lawyers', according to a leading industry voice.
The legislation will scrap anti-strike laws brought in by the last Conservative government and introduce a string of new employment rights championed by the trade unions.
The government's own impact assessment found the legislation was likely to cost business up to £5 billion a year, but many business leaders fear the damage will be far greater.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission has warned that it could 'curtail' freedom of expression and be applied to 'overheard conversations'.
If staff hear punters discussing religious views, transgender rights or women's rights in a 'contentious manner', the customers could be handed a ban.
Comment: With the potential that this has for curbing free expression, one has to wonder if that's not what this proposed legislation is really about.