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Bereavement Leave and Pay (Stillborn and Miscarried Babies)
19 October 2021
Lead MP
Sarah Owen
Debate Type
General Debate
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Other Contributors: 1
At a Glance
Sarah Owen raised concerns about bereavement leave and pay (stillborn and miscarried babies) 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
Moves to extend entitlement to parental bereavement leave and pay to cover parents of babies who are miscarried or stillborn during early pregnancy. She cites personal experience, statistics from the Miscarriage Association noting about a quarter of a million people annually in the UK miscarry, and highlights societal changes that have started breaking the stigma around baby loss but lack legal recognition.
Sarah Owen
Lab
Luton North
Stresses her own experience of miscarriage at work, detailing how she had to balance professional responsibilities while grieving privately. She mentions that although her employer was supportive, it is not the case for everyone and legal support is needed universally. Owen also notes cross-party support including from the right hon. Member for South West Surrey (Jeremy Hunt) and gratitude towards Sands charity.
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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.