Jobs and prosperity go hand in hand. The more people who want to work and are able to do so, the stronger the economy. The more people who make use of scarce skills, the better for business. The more parents in work, the lower the level of poverty, including child poverty. As standards of living rise, quality of life matters more. Working and bringing up children is a tough combination. Parents daily juggle work and family life.
The Government wants to make it easier for parents who choose to work to do so. The UK's statutory provision is not as generous as that in many European countries. But it is more generous than that in the USA or Australia. This Green Paper seeks views on a number of practical measures to help working parents. It also recognises that businesses, particularly small employers, need to minimise extra costs. We need to find ways of helping parents and helping business at the same time.
This consultation is a step along the path to the future. Getting a proper balance between home and work is a prize for us all. We must approach it carefully and weigh and consider the changes. This is an issue we will tackle in the long term as well as the short term. We need to achieve a society where being a good parent and a good employee are not in conflict.
We want to hear what your priorities are on the issues set out in this Green Paper. This is your opportunity to help shape a new deal which supports parents and business.
Stephen Byers
Secretary of State for Trade and Industry
