UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed that the government will review Rockstar union layoffs after recent allegations.
Last month, Rockstar dismissed 31 employees across its UK and Canadian offices, citing gross misconduct. The company claimed the staff had allegedly leaked confidential company information in a public forum.
However, the Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain (IWGB) alleges the firings targeted employees involved in union activity. IWGB claims some employees belonged to a Game Workers Union channel on Discord and were attempting to organise.
Following the dismissals, petitions appeared outside Rockstar’s Edinburgh office and Take-Two’s London office. Over 200 Rockstar North employees submitted a letter demanding the reinstatement of their former colleagues.
During Prime Minister’s Questions, Labour MP Chris Murray raised concerns about the company’s treatment of workers. Murray described Rockstar’s actions as union-busting and said management failed to reassure him about employment law compliance.
He added that the government has increased worker protections and that all companies must respect employment law. Starmer responded by calling the situation “deeply concerning” and affirmed every worker’s right to join a union.
He also stated that ministers will investigate Rockstar union layoffs and provide updates to Murray. Rockstar maintains that the dismissals were strictly due to violations of company policy.
The company denied any connection between the firings and employees’ union membership or organizing efforts. A spokesperson said the action targeted a small group distributing confidential information publicly, in breach of rules.
Trade union advocates continue to push for clarity and protections for employees in the video game industry. They argue that union rights must be protected, especially in high-profile companies with global influence.
The case highlights tensions between corporate policies and workers’ rights to organize and voice concerns collectively. Lawmakers and labour groups are watching closely, emphasizing the importance of fairness and transparency in such disputes.
Rockstar union layoffs have sparked wider debate about how tech and gaming companies balance security with employee rights. Observers note that the government review could set a precedent for handling union disputes in other industries.
As the investigation proceeds, workers, unions, and politicians await clear guidance on lawful employment and union protections.
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