New research commissioned by the Government shows that 3 in 4 mothers have had a negative or possibly discriminatory experience during pregnancy, maternity leave or on their return to work.

This is much worse than when the first major research into this subject was carried out in 2005 which showed that 45% of women reported experiencing discrimination.

I led a debate in Parliament on what we need to do to tackle this crucial issue. In my view, there are some changes to the law required, but the main thing the Government should be doing is to lead a big campaign to help change the culture around pregnancy and maternity in the workplace, and ensure that employers can be supported to give mothers the help they deserve and need.