HL Deb 14 July 1997 vol 581 c95WA
Earl Russell

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will strengthen or clarify legal protection against dismissal for pregnancy in the light of the cases quoted on pages 58–60 of Partnering Equality, the annual report of the Equal Opportunities Commission.

The Minister of State, Department of Trade and Industry (Lord Clinton-Davis)

As the report notes, it is not always clear how European law on rights during pregnancy applies in particular circumstances. My department monitors developments in case law carefully and when necessary will amend published guidance where cases result in clarification of the law. As the report also says, several women have successfully claimed their rights through the courts.