**The big picture:** Proposed UK reforms to guarantee worker hours could significantly reduce temporary job opportunities, according to the recruitment industry. **Why it matters:** Employers anticipate higher costs and increased hiring complexity, directly impacting staffing firms' operational strategies and the availability of contingent labor. **Between the lines:** - The reforms aim to provide greater certainty over working hours for employees. - Recruiters warn businesses may cut temporary roles to mitigate new cost burdens. - The Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) is advocating for government exemptions. **Staffing & HR impact:** Staffing firms operating in the UK could face reduced demand for temporary placements, impacting gross margins and requiring adjustments to compliance frameworks. HR departments will need to re-evaluate contingent workforce strategies and associated labor costs. **The bottom line:** Watch for legislative details and industry lobbying efforts to shape the future landscape of UK contingent work.