Question to the Department for Business and Trade:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what steps he is taking to support parents who need to take time out of work to care for children with long term illnesses.

The Government recognises the difficult circumstances faced by parents who need to take time out of work to care for children with long term illnesses.

The Government has made a range of commitments which will work to support parents in this situation so they can balance work with caring responsibilities. This includes making flexible working the default as part of the Employment Rights Bill, which will make it easier for parents to access flexible working where it is feasible. Government has also committed to reviewing unpaid Carer’s leave and exploring the benefits of a paid entitlement.