Member

I take this opportunity to say how much we value the work these employees do and how crucial they are to our national security, not least on the day when we are commemorating the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe. Where possible, they deserve the opportunity to have improved employment rights. As I say, we trust them, and indeed all the security services, to keep our country safe, so I think we can trust them to use these rights responsibly. The amendment proposed by the noble Lord would prevent these employees accessing flexible working via the enhanced right to request delivered through this Bill, whereas the measures we have taken leave this option available in the vast majority of cases where national security is not involved.