Self-employed: Paternity Leave

Lord Kirkhope of Harrogate Excerpts

Wednesday 20th May 2026 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Lloyd of Effra (Lab)]

I am pleased to take this opportunity to say that the UK had the highest growth in the G7 in the last quarter. I am also pleased to highlight the measures we are taking to reduce costs on business—for example, ending mandatory strategic reports. I am also pleased to talk about the measures we are now taking to support families with the cost of living, be it energy costs or expanding free school meals.

[Lord Kirkhope of Harrogate (Con)]

Will the Minister confirm that, compared to years ago, when society put more responsibility on mothers than it should in bringing up children, society is now much better, in that fathers share responsibilities far more than they did then? Will she therefore join me in congratulating those parents who work together to bring up their children to best effect?

[Baroness Lloyd of Effra (Lab)]

Parents and families of all compositions are trying their best to bring their children up. The Government are there to provide support, whether through, for example, free school meals or employment rights. There are many ways to do so, which is why there is complexity in looking at what further should be done.