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Prime Minister's question asked in the House of Commons, by Tom Harris (Labour). It was answered on Wednesday, 20 November 2013 on behalf of the Prime Minister.


Engagements

Question

Bereaved parents coming to terms with their loss have no right to paid employment leave, which forces many of them to go back to work far too soon after the death of a child. Will the Prime Minister commit to amending the Employment Rights Act 1996 so as to at last give British parents the legal right and the time to grieve?

Answer

The hon. Gentleman raises an important issue, and I am happy to look at that, having suffered that experience myself. As a Member of Parliament, it is possible to take a little bit of time to stand back and come to terms with what has happened, because colleagues and the people who help us are ready to step in and do what they can. He has raised an important point; let me look at it and get back to him.


Secondary information

Type
Oral question
Reference
570 c1228 
Session
2013-14
Oral question type
Supplementary
Chamber / Committee
House of Commons chamber
Subjects
Children Death Leave Parents
Legislation
Employment Rights Act 1996
Link
View this Prime Minister's question on www.publications.parliament.uk