My hon. Friend is making an excellent speech and I am delighted that his terrific Bill is already on its Third Reading. The Bill not only supports families but also provides a spur to the economy by encouraging people to maintain their life in work.

My hon. Friend is making an excellent point. This is hugely important work, and I commend the work he has done and praise both the CBI and the Trades Union Congress for their support of this important Bill.

Supports the Bill, highlighting its necessity despite initial regulatory hesitations. He notes that the Employment Rights Act 1996 will be amended to protect women during and after maternity leave from unfair redundancy practices. Cites statistics showing up to 54,000 new mothers are dismissed annually due to pregnancy or maternity leave. Argues for improved job security at critical times in families' lives and reduced conflicts with costly legal cases.

Supports the Bill, emphasising its importance for pregnant women and new parents. Cites personal experience of discrimination during job interviews in early 2000s due to pregnancy assumptions. References a 2016 study by the Equality and Human Rights Commission that found one in nine mothers reported being dismissed or treated poorly because of their maternity status. Highlights clause 1(4) allowing protection post-miscarriage.

Supports the Bill and calls for continued efforts to support new parents, especially women. Highlights that becoming a parent is both exciting and anxiety-inducing due to job security concerns. Cites statistics from his constituency showing higher proportions of young families compared to national averages. Emphasises the need for flexible work conditions and job security during maternity leave and upon return to employment. References a 2015 EHRC survey indicating significant minority faced difficulties including forced redundancy post-pregnancy. Advocates for nurturing workforce rather than pressuring employees. Supports wealth creators and SMEs, noting that such legislation is appropriate given cross-party support and positive outcomes from BEIS consultations.

Welcomes the Bill's introduction and commends the cross-party support. Highlights research indicating that around 54,000 mothers may lose their jobs each year due to discrimination during pregnancy or maternity leave. Emphasises the need for regulatory measures to extend protections beyond current legal frameworks, stressing the importance of government consultation with business organisations and trade unions to ensure smooth implementation without significant costs.

Acknowledges widespread support for the Bill and its necessity. Reiterates that the legislation is long overdue given historical research indicating severe discrimination against pregnant women and new mothers. Emphasises the need for detailed regulations to be issued by the Government soon, as well as addressing issues such as the six-week rule which may exclude certain groups from protection.

Supported the Bill, highlighting its importance for workers' rights alongside business considerations. Emphasised the economic challenges businesses face and the need to balance worker protections with financial burdens on firms (£30 million initial costs). Acknowledged the long-term impact of the pandemic on labour markets globally and praised the measures as a 'sweet spot'.

Expressed gratitude for contributions made by Members and organisations. Acknowledged the Bill's aim of protecting women laid off due to pregnancy, emphasising collective effort from Yorkshire MPs.