Pregnancy and Maternity (Redundancy Protection) Bill

A Bill to prohibit redundancy during pregnancy and maternity leave and for six months after the end of the pregnancy or leave, except in specified circumstances; and for connected purposes

Originating House

House of Commons

Last Updated

5 May 2021

In Plain English

AI-generated

The Bill would stop employers from making a worker redundant while she is pregnant, while she is on maternity leave, or for six months after the end of her pregnancy or leave. Redundancy could only happen in specific, limited circumstances outlined in the Bill. Overall, it aims to protect job security for pregnant workers and those returning from maternity leave.

Key Points

Prohibits redundancy during pregnancy, on maternity leave, and for six months after leave ends.
Redundancy may only occur in certain circumstances set out in the Bill.
Aims to strengthen protections for pregnant workers and those returning from maternity leave.
Currently at the second reading in the House of Commons, so it is in the early stages of passage; if it progresses, it will move through further stages in both Houses.
Requires employers to follow the new rules when considering layoffs to protect affected employees.

Progress

The Bill is at its second reading in the House of Commons. If it advances, it would go through further stages in Parliament (Committee/Report stages in both Houses) and would need Royal Assent to become law.

Who is affected?

Pregnant employeesEmployees on maternity leaveEmployers and managers who decide on redundanciesHuman resources and payroll teams

Generated 21 February 2026

Updates & Documents

News (1)

News - Pregnancy and Maternity (Redundancy Protection)

1 Jan 1970

The Bill failed to complete its passage through Parliament before the end of the session. This means the Bill will make no further progress.

Parliamentary Votes (0)

No recorded votes for this bill yet.

Pregnancy and Maternity (Redundancy Protection) Bill | TrackPolitics