Equal Pay and Flexible Working Bill [HL]

My Lords, I agree with the last words of the noble Lord and I hope that the whole debate has reflected a cross-party and non-partisan approach. However, I felt that I had to put the record straight, and indeed I welcome the opportunity to do so. I note the comments of the right reverend Prelate the Bishop of Southwark on flexible working, which were absolutely on the ball. Flexible working can make a huge difference to family well-being. As the noble Baroness, Lady Gould of Potternewton, reminded us, individual performance improves when there is flexibility in the working environment. However, I fear that many UK businesses will struggle to survive the next 12 to 18 difficult months. There will be other occasions on which we can discuss why that has happened and what needs to happen now. I have listened carefully to the concerns of the CBI and British Chambers of Commerce and was pleased to note in the CBI’s briefing on the Bill a reminder of its view that discrimination is inexcusable. Although both organisations have concerns about the detailed provisions, they support flexible working practices and recognise that they can be particularly useful to businesses during a downturn. As we proceed to the Committee stage, we must reflect on how this legislation can be improved. However, as businesses struggle to survive, in my view they will greatly enhance their chances of success if they truly embrace fairness, allowing each and every individual to realise his or her full potential and then receiving full and fair recompense in return. I support the Bill.