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Written question asked by Sorcha Eastwood (Alliance) on Friday, 12 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 16 June 2026. It was answered by Andrew Western (Labour) on Wednesday, 24 June 2026 on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.

Parental Leave

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, if he will take steps to ensure parity of baseline parental leave rights, including the standard two-week entitlement, for parents regardless of their partner’s leave arrangements.

Answer

The Government is undertaking a Review of Parental Leave and Pay, which provides an important opportunity to consider whether the current system meets the needs of modern working families, including those who are self-employed.

The Review will conclude in early 2027, at which point the Government will set out its findings and next steps for any potential reforms.

Some employers choose to offer more than the statutory minimum pay, sometimes referred to as ‘occupational’ or ‘contractual’ parental pay. This is a matter between employers and employees.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
9459
Session
2026-27
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Parental leave
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk