Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what recent assessment he has made of the adequacy of the rate of statutory maternity pay; if he will take steps to increase the level of protection for pregnant women against detriment or dismissal by their employers; and if he will make a statement.

The standard rate of Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) is reviewed annually. Since 2011, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) has provided the basis of any uprating and, for the 2018/19 tax year, the standard rate of SMP will increase by just under 3%

The first six weeks of an award of SMP are also related directly to the earnings of the claimant, with no upper limit, rather than being set at a prescribed rate.

In respect of protection provided for pregnant women, the law is absolutely clear: discrimination in the workplace is unlawful, with clear regulations in place which every employer must follow. We are working to raise employees’ and employers’ awareness of what the law already requires, and considering options for legislation if this does not drive change.

We are also funding the Equality Advisory and Support Service, an entirely free advice helpline open to anyone in England, Scotland and Wales, who feels that they may have been the victim of unlawful discrimination, including because of pregnancy and maternity.