§ Mr. Paul MarsdenTo ask the Prime Minister what considerations underlie his policy on paternity leave; and if he will make a statement. [117292]
§ The Prime MinisterThe Maternity and Parental Leave Regulations 1999 give both employed parents of a child born or placed for adoption after 15 December 1999 a minimum entitlement of 13 weeks unpaid parental leave during the first five years of parenthood. These regulations implement the Parental Leave Directive and reflect the Government's wish to help the parents of young children strike a better balance between their work and family commitments. The Government encourage employers to improve on these minimum requirements where this accords with the needs of employees and is compatible with the efficient running of the business.