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date: 20 January 2010

embargo: For immediate release

TUC welcomes plans to increase flexible working

Commenting on the Government's proposals to increase flexible working opportunities for mums and dads in the UK, published today (Wednesday) in Support for All - the Families and Relationships Green Paper, TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber said:

'Working parents who are trying to combine a job or career with raising a young family will be relieved that ministers are considering allowing those with children over five the chance to take parental leave.

'Similarly men who are planning to become fathers in the not too distant future will be pleased that they may have to give their employers less notice to take paternity leave and so spend valuable time with their new families.

'Any moves that make it easier for men to get more involved with the care and development of their children are to be welcomed, as is the news that ministers are to encourage those businesses yet to grasp the very real benefits of flexible working to do what many employers have been doing for years.'

NOTES TO EDITORS:

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Press release (300 words) issued 20 Jan 2010