UPDATED 6.39PM: Labour's accusing the government of a lurch to the right, with employment law changes passed through Parliament today.

When the law comes into effect next year, employers will be able to dock pay of workers on a partial strike, and negotiate out of giving them tea breaks.

They'll no longer have to conclude collective bargaining.

Labour's Phil Twyford says it's bad news all round for workers, and encourages the worst behaviour by the worst employers.

He's accused National of "throwing red meat" to its hardline friends in the business community.

Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Michael Woodhouse maintains it's about flexibility, and not undermining workers.

He says even the most sensible labour law changes get "the opposition up like meerkats", but he believes the bill is good for both employers and employees.