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Dept of Trade and Industry

Answer

Helen Jones: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what assessment she has made of the merits of introducing a right for the carers of older or disabled adults (a) to have paid leave from work and (b) to request flexible working; and if she will make a statement. [179246] Mr. Sutcliffe: The DTI is taking forward a programme of work to explore what additional support could be provided to people balancing work and caring responsibilities, in ways that meet both individual and business needs. The work includes a series of roundtables in each region across the country, and in Scotland and Wales. Carers UK and the Princess Royal Trust for Carers have each hosted a roundtable to hear directly from carers and employers about their experiences and needs. In addition, a Citizens' Jury has also taken place to further identify priorities and potential options for the future. This will help shape future policy and the review of the flexible working and other family friendly laws, planned for 2006. An issue which my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister has indicated should be a priority is, subject to that review, extending the flexible working law to wider groups of carers, such as carers of elderly or sick relatives.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

179246; 422 c1454W

Session

2003-04

Subjects

Disability Conditions of employment Carers Leave Flexible working Older people

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk