CIPD responds to government commitment on parental leave and pay review scope

As the government publishes its response to the Women and Equalities Committee’s Equality at work: Paternity and shared parental leave report, Claire McCartney, policy and practice manager at the CIPD, the professional body for HR and people development, said: 

“We’re pleased the government has confirmed that all current and upcoming parental leave and pay entitlements will be in the scope of its parental leave review. The existing system is not fit for purpose and reform is necessary to support better and fairer employment opportunities for working parents.  

“As we highlighted in our submission to the review, the UK sits behind many OECD countries on paternity leave and pay. To support better balance and choice for working parents, the government should increase statutory paternity leave to six weeks at or near the full rate of pay. Enhancing and ring-fencing this leave is likely to significantly improve take-up and support fathers and partners to play an active role in their children’s early care and beyond. Shared parental leave should also be reformed and simplified for both parents and employers. 

“Given the level of change organisations are facing under the Employment Rights Bill, the government should take a phased approach to implementing reforms, coupled with clear guidance and support for employers.”