Fertility treatment and employment rights
Westminster Hall debate
On Tuesday 1 November 2022, Nickie Aiken MP led a Westminster Hall debate on fertility treatment and employment rights.
Introducing the topic, she gave the following statement:
“Unlike employment legislation for pregnancy, maternity and paternity antenatal care, employers have no requirement to give time off work for fertility treatment or any initial consultation. Many employers put fertility treatment in their workplace policies under the same category as cosmetic surgery.”
“Juggling treatment and work is very tough and many people feel they cannot tell their employer for fear of being overlooked for promotion, having major projects taken off them, or being made redundant. In 2022, no one should have to choose between having a child and their career.”
“I am delighted to have secured the Westminster Hall debate on fertility treatment and employment rights. I hope the debate will shine a spotlight on fertility matters in the workplace and be the catalyst for change to support everyone going through it.”
How it works
What is a Westminster Hall Debate?
Westminster Hall debates take place in the Grand Committee Room in the House of Commons.
They give MPs an opportunity to raise local or national issues and receive a response from a government minister.
Debates in Westminster Hall take place on ‘general debate' motions expressed in neutral terms. These motions are worded ‘That this House has considered [a specific matter]'.
How Parliament works: Westminster Hall debates.
Parliamentary activity and resources
Photo credit: UK Parliament / Jessica Taylor
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