Handle Your Business

Many small businesses in the UK are not overly enthusiastic about the new paternity laws, new research suggests.

From the 3rd of April 2011, fathers with a baby born on or after 3rd April could be eligible to take up to 26 weeks of paternity leave.

A survey by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) highlighted that businesses with liability protection are concerned that the new law will cause them a number of potential difficulties. According to the survey, 52% of small businesses believe the additional paternity leave requirement is likely to be detrimental to their business.

David Frost, Director General of the BCC said:

“In the face of promises by the government to listen to the needs of business and cut red tape, this new piece of employment regulation will hit businesses hard.”

“Our survey results show that employment law changes are causing great concern among employers, who, instead of concentrating on running their business, have to cope with more and more shifts in employment law. Unless practical steps are taken to help free businesses from red tape, the burden on employers will only increase.”

It is believed that the new paternity law was introduced to encourage equal rights. Nevertheless, small businesses may not be fighting such a colossal battle as it is expected that men will be unable to take full advantage of the law. Female workers currently earn 56% of male earnings, and witha new addition in the household reduced incomes may put great strain on the family, encouraging men to remain at work.

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