News

July 2009

Extra Paternity Leave Put on Hold

Proposals to introduce six months’ paid paternity leave for new fathers have been put on hold by the government in the light of the current economic climate.

The plans would have seen parents being able to share the 12 months maternity leave between them. Plans to extend the current statutory paid maternity pay from nine months to 12 have also been put on hold.

A spokesperson for the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform issued the following statement:

“We have not yet announced a date for extending maternity and paternity rights. We are continuing to review the appropriateness of all new regulations due to come into force in the current economic climate.  It is only right that in tough economic times we look afresh at the costs and benefits of new regulations.”

This announcement means that new father’s will not be able to take six months' paid leave to look after their baby, allowing the mother to return to work early. Many businesses will be relieved that this change is not being introduced in the current economic climate.

Internet link: Telegraph article