Lorely Burt MP introduces Flexible Working Bill to Parliament

10.31.35am BST (GMT +0100) Thu 29th Mar 2007

On Tuesday 27th March, Lorely Burt MP introduced her Ten-Minute Rule Bill to Parliament. The Bill aims to extend flexible working eligibility to all parents with children under the age of 18.

The law currently states that parents with children under 6 years old, or 18 years if their child is disabled, can request flexible working hours. However, parental responsibility obviously extends far beyond this.

Introducing her Bill, Lorely said,

"Today, I want simply to pave the way for this enhancement, which extends the right to request flexible working to parents of children up to the age of 18. I submit that parents of children aged between six and 18 have just as important a parenting role, and just as many trials, tribulations and challenges-and triumphs-to face. How much better it would be if mum and dad could still be around, particularly at stressful times such as when their children change school, or at exam time?"

You can add your support to the campaign for flexible working by signing the Liberal Democrat petition at http://campaigns.libdems.org.uk/flexibleworking&petition=success&id=181&lang=eng

Lorely's contribution can also be read at http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200607/cmhansrd/cm070327/debtext/70327-0004.htm#07032777000002