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Written question asked by Ian Byrne (Labour) on Thursday, 10 September 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 12 October 2026 (named day). It was answered by Kate Dearden (Labour) on Monday, 12 October 2026 on behalf of the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade.


Paternity Leave and Paternity Pay

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, whether his Department has made an assessment of the potential impact of the rate of Statutory Paternity Pay on (a) take-up of paternity leave and (b) the amount of paternity leave taken by eligible fathers and partners.

Answer

The Government recognises the current system could do more to support the many dads and partners who want to be actively involved in caring for their children.

We are undertaking a Review of the Parental Leave and Pay system. All current Parental Leave and Pay entitlements are in scope of the Review. The Review is also considering support for working families who do not currently qualify for them, such as self-employed parents.

The Review will conclude in early 2027 with a set of findings in which the Government will outline next steps for taking any potential reforms forward to implementation.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
28828
Session
2026-27
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Paternity leave Paternity pay
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk