Overview

This bill mandates that large employers (those with over 250 employees) in the UK publicly disclose their parental leave and pay policies. The aim is to increase transparency and ensure fair treatment of parents in the workplace.

Description

The Parental Leave and Pay Arrangements (Publication) Bill amends the Employment Rights Act 1996 and the Employment Tribunals Act 1996. It requires employers with more than 250 employees to publish a detailed statement of their parental leave policy on their website. This statement must include:

• Details on eligibility for parental leave, statutory pay, and any additional benefits.
• Information on qualifying conditions, such as length of service.
• Description of support provided to parents, including flexible working arrangements.

The policy statement must be accompanied by a signed confirmation of its accuracy. The bill also specifies that this information must be published annually, or within two months of any material change to the policy (excluding changes to statutory pay). Failure to comply results in a notice of non-compliance, and further non-compliance may lead to financial penalties of between £500 and £5,000. Employers have the right to appeal against penalties to an employment tribunal.

Government Spending

The bill is expected to increase government spending due to the need for resources to support enforcement by Her Majesty's Commissioners of Revenue and Customs (HMRC) but no precise figures are included within the bill itself.

Groups Affected

• Large Employers (over 250 employees): Required to publish parental leave policies and face potential penalties for non-compliance.
• Parents and Employees: Benefit from increased transparency regarding parental leave entitlements and support. May have easier access to information and the ability to report possible non-compliance.
• HMRC: Responsible for enforcing the new regulations and investigating complaints.
• Employment Tribunals: Will hear appeals against notices of non-compliance and financial penalties.

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