Mothers to be given greater protection against redundancy

The government says it wants to provide mothers and pregnant women with better protection against the threat of redundancy.

The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy is to hold a public consultation on the issue and consider new ways to ensure women are not subjected to discrimination at work.

It follows a report by the Women and Equalities Select Committee on pregnancy and maternity discrimination.

Business Minister Margot James said: “We are determined to tackle pregnancy and maternity discrimination and a key part of that is making sure new and expectant mothers are supported and treated fairly by their employers.

“While most businesses abide by the law, some do not. There should be zero tolerance of discrimination against pregnant women, or women who have just given birth, that’s why we are committing to making sure new and expectant mothers have sufficient protections from redundancy.

“I’d like to thank the Women and Equalities Select Committee for shining a light on this issue which is a key priority of mine.”

The government has also committed to considering what further guidance can be provided to both courts and claimants about existing flexibilities in the employment tribunal system to extend the time limit for bringing a case.

The 3-month time limit for bringing a case can be extended when the independent employment tribunal decides it is “just and equitable” to do so.

We shall keep clients informed of developments.

Please contact Jackie Cuneen if you would like more information about the issues raised in this article or any aspect of employment law.