Kate Whannel, a political reporter, has presented a recent development indicating the government’s support for paid bereavement leave for couples experiencing a miscarriage. Business Minister Justin Madders expressed his full acceptance of the principle of bereavement leave for pregnancy loss and assured MPs that he would explore the possibility of incorporating this right into the Employment Rights Bill. Currently, employees can take parental bereavement leave if a stillbirth occurs after 24 weeks of pregnancy.
Labour MP Sarah Owen, who heads the Women and Equalities Committee, has advocated for extending the right to bereavement leave to cases of miscarriages before 24 weeks. Madders acknowledged the importance of addressing miscarriage leave, emphasizing that bereavement necessitates a distinct category as it is not an illness or a vacation. He commended Owen’s courageous stance in sharing her own experience of miscarriage, highlighting the emotional toll it can take on individuals.
Owen and her committee have put forward proposals to amend the Employment Rights Bill, seeking to secure two weeks of leave for parents affected by pregnancy loss. This initiative has received positive feedback, with Madders indicating the government’s endorsement of bereavement leave for pregnancy loss. The bill not only addresses miscarriage leave but also aims to bolster workers’ rights in various aspects such as unfair dismissals, flexible working arrangements, and sick pay.
While the government has been supportive of bereavement leave for pregnancy loss, discussions have arisen regarding the overall balance of rights for employees and employers within the bill. Conservative shadow business minister Greg Smith has raised concerns about certain provisions and proposed amendments requiring impact assessments. Additionally, calls have been made, including by former Labour minister Louise Haigh and Lib Dem MP Layla Moran, for a ban on non-disclosure agreements in cases of workplace misconduct.
Furthermore, efforts to enhance paternity and parental partner leave have been highlighted, with Labour MP Stella Creasy pushing for amendments to review and potentially improve the existing provisions. The UK’s approach towards supporting fathers in the workplace has been scrutinized, with calls for aligning policies with those of similar countries. While these proposals have garnered significant support, the government’s stance on accepting these amendments remains uncertain at this stage
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