Andrew Cooper

Andrew Cooper

Labour — Mid Cheshire

Speaking in the House of Commons on 27 October 2025

Debate

Statutory Maternity and Paternity Pay

Contribution

I have been contacted by a number of constituents concerned about the requirement to have worked continuously with the same employer to qualify for statutory maternity pay. Women who change jobs shortly before pregnancy are excluded from statutory maternity pay. They miss out on the six weeks at 90% of average weekly earnings and instead receive a lower maternity allowance. That creates a financial strain, forcing people to return to work early and harming the wellbeing of mothers and children. Does my hon. Friend agree that that issue must be addressed and that we need to provide fair support for all working mothers?

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