Work and Families Bill

The amendment seeks to limit the Secretary of State’s powers by requiring the additional leave entitlement in Clause 13 to be phased in. We understand the intention behind the amendment. The phased introduction of the additional leave entitlement would give longer for business to adjust to the additional costs, and the amendment reflects the proposal put forward by the CBI. We will consider phasing in the additional leave entitlement when we consult shortly on how to implement the annual leave provisions in the Bill. However, the amendment would pre-judge the results of that consultation. It proposes that the additional leave be phased in through four annual increases in leave entitlement. While this is one possible pattern to phase in the additional leave, it may place an excessive burden on business by changing the rules every year for four years. Before we decide whether the additional leave should be phased in, and over what period, we should consult those affected—both staff and businesses—on what would be most appropriate. That is what we intend to do, and I ask the noble Baroness to withdraw her amendment.