Question

To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities, if she will promote a campaign to increase employers' understanding of their legal obligations to employees who are either pregnant or new mothers.

The government funds the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS) and the Equality Advisory and Support Service (EASS) to help employers and individuals understand their rights and responsibilities at work.

The government also funds the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) which has a wide range of information and support specifically aimed at pregnant women, new mothers and their employers, available on their website.

The government commissioned new research from the EHRC into the attitudes of employers on pregnancy and maternity leave, as well as the prevalence and causes of pregnancy discrimination in the workplace.It is the largest ever study of pregnancy and maternity-related discrimination in Great Britain, interviewing 3000 employers and 3000 mothers. The final report will be published later this year and will inform any further action the government takes to ensure both employers and employees are fully aware of their legal obligations and rights.