APA is regularly asked by Government to comment on upcoming changes to legislation (UK & European). UK Government is currently seeking views on pending amendments to the European Commission's Pregnant Workers Directive (92/85/EEC).The Directive sets down minimum levels of maternity rights, including leave and pay, which Member States must provide. The Commission’s aim is to contribute to better work life balance through improving the protections offered to pregnant workers and workers who have recently given birth or are breastfeeding. As part of its policies to support working parents, UK Government has built on the minimum standards set out in the existing Directive (2008) and provides a longer period of maternity leave and a higher rate of maternity pay than is currently required.
APA would welcome your views on the Commission’s proposal to change the minimum standards set out in the Directive, including the likely costs and benefits. Your views will inform our response to Government. It is worth looking at the section that compares EC minimums and the UK interpretation. In the case of compulsory maternity leave, currently two weeks in the UK, the EC is proposing an increase to six weeks – is this reasonable?
To view the Consultation Document go to: http://www.berr.gov.uk/files/file50575.pdf
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