Oral Answers to Questions

Tracy Brabin Excerpts
Thursday 23rd March 2017

(7 years, 7 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Caroline Dinenage Portrait Caroline Dinenage
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My hon. Friend is absolutely right to draw attention to that. We want to ensure that all women can fulfil their potential. That is why the Government have extended the right to flexible working and introduced shared parental leave. From September, we will double the 30 hours childcare offer.

Tracy Brabin Portrait Tracy Brabin (Batley and Spen) (Lab)
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According to Maternity Action, 54,000 women are forced out of work each year due to maternity discrimination. What steps are the Government taking to address that unacceptable gender inequality?

Caroline Dinenage Portrait Caroline Dinenage
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Maternity discrimination and pregnancy discrimination in any form is utterly illegal and must be tackled. Women must feel that they can bring cases forward, which is why we are committed to ensuring people from all backgrounds can access justice. The introduction of the early conciliation service through ACAS has meant that people have to avoid the stress of going through an employment tribunal hearing.