Paternity leave

[Wig Wag]

My wife is having a baby next year. Is there a statutory right to paternity leave and/or unpaid leave in Britain?

Any comments or links to appropriate websites would be appreciated.

Thanks,

WW

[ 12 December 2001: Message edited by: Wig Wag ]

[Zulu]

As far as I know (don't quote me)..
1) Paternity leave isn't statutory - although a lot of companies will offer 3 - 5 days off immediately after the birth
2) Unpaid leave - there is a new-ish (1-2 years old) European law to parental leave.
Basically, I think you are entitled to up to 13 weeks unpaid leave in the first five years of the child's life.
Details are on Actual legislation (http://www.legislation.hmso.gov.uk/si/si1999/19993312.htm)
and
DTI info. (http://www.dti.gov.uk/er/parental_leave.htm)

[Wig Wag]

Thank you Mr Zulu for your reply.

Now my dear Wife sees the point in PPRUNE !