← Back to House of Commons Debates
Fertility Treatment (Right to Time Off) 2025-11-04
04 November 2025
Lead MP
Alice Macdonald
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
Employment
Other Contributors: 1
At a Glance
Alice Macdonald raised concerns about fertility treatment (right to time off) 2025-11-04 in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
The motion proposes a Bill that would provide employees with legal rights to paid time off work for fertility treatment. It aims to address the significant challenges faced by individuals undergoing IVF, highlighting the lack of support from employers and the emotional and physical toll it imposes. The MP argues that access to fertility treatment should not depend on employer goodwill or personal financial resources and underlines the importance of workplace protection similar to antenatal care.
Alice Macdonald
Lab/Co-op
Norwich North
The Bill aims to establish a statutory right to paid time off for employees undergoing fertility treatment, including partners. It addresses the current lack of support from employers and highlights the physical and emotional strain associated with IVF treatments. The MP cites statistics showing that over 50,000 patients underwent IVF in 2023 and underscores the inequality faced by women who must often hide their medical condition due to fear of employer retaliation or loss of employment.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.