Consultation on Modern Workplaces

What is it all about? The government is seeking views on proposals to update employment practices to meet the demands of modern life. The plans focus on four areas: implementing the coalition's commitments to flexible parental leave; extending the right to request flexible leave to all employees; amending working time regulations affecting the interaction of annual leave with sick leave and family-friendly leave; and taking steps to tackle the gender pay gap.

What are the main points? Under the parental leave proposals, mothers and fathers would be given an additional month's leave on full pay around the time of their child's birth. After the first five months of the baby's life they would be given seven months of flexible parental leave which could be taken in chunks by either parent. Plans to extend flexible working would allow all employees — not just those who are carers or parents of young people — to request it. However, the government has said it plans to provide more support for carers who have a temporary need for flexible working.

Who can have their say? Anyone with an interest in parental leave, including individuals and those representing organisations.

When is the deadline? 8 August. Responses can be completed online at www.surveymonkey.com/s/8BWB3XJ.