|
|
 |
Network Journal 2004 Issue 4 |
 |
Labour MP backs Parents and Carers campaign
The Government has made progress in helping low paid working families but there is still much to do, Warrington North MP Helen Jones told conference.
Speaking in support of the Supporting Parents and Carers campaign she said: "Working life has to be as flexible as real life. We all pay the price for employers' inflexibility. If people leave work because they can't balance their work and home life there is a cost in terms of the experience lost, and the price of a replacement and retraining. We all know where there is no provision for parental leave for emergencies, say to look after a sick child, parents phone in sick. Giving reasonable parental leave or having flexible working practices will have an immediate impact on the level of sickness in the UK.
"There is a sound business case for employers to be as flexible as they want their staff to be. In Scandinavian countries where parental leave is paid this is not seen as a barrier to efficiency. Both employers and employees see it as a progressive necessary policy for the 21st century.
"I want to wish Usdaw good luck with this campaign. It's timely, I believe you are pushing at an open door in the political arena, and I'm sure your members will support it."
 Printer Friendly Page  Email to a Friend
|
|
