Work

London Calling: Devolution and the London Living Wage Campaign

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT This article examines the role of devolution in shaping employment relations through a case study of the Living Wage in London. Drawing on a mixed methods approach it explores the rationale and methods by which the Greater London Authority has promoted fair pay despite possessing limited direct legislative power. The article identifies five key mechanisms; its role as an employer, soft regulation, procurement, institution‐building, and ideological leadership, and evaluates their effectiveness in promoting Living Wage adoption in the capital. Our findings suggest that that collaborative, multi‐actor strategies can reshape employment practices, highlighting the potential of ‘devolved without power’ governance to reconfigure labour standards.

Source: Industrial Relations Journal

DOI: 10.1111/irj.70030

Authors: Deborah Hann, David Nash

Institution: Cardiff University

Language: English

Topic: Legal and Labor Studies

Subfield: Industrial relations

Field: Business, Management and Accounting

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Decent work and economic growth, Reduced inequalities, Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,900