Paternity leave in UK is outdated and unequal, say MPs

The UK’s statutory parental leave system is “one of the worst in the developed world” and has “fundamental flaws”, a group of cross-party MPs has said.

A report published today by the Women and Equalities Committee said paternity leave rules “entrench outdated gender stereotypes”.

It added that “bold” action is needed, but warned any changes would require significant investment.

A Department for Business and Trade spokesperson said the government is carrying out a review to see how it best can support working families.

Introduced in 2003, statutory paternity leave allows most new fathers and second parents in the UK to take up to two weeks off work.

It applies to all partners, regardless of gender, after the birth, surrogacy or adoption…