Kate Green MP, Labour’s Shadow Minister for Women and Equalities, commenting on the report from The Equality and Human Rights Commission on pregnancy and maternity discrimination published today, said:

“The Tories promised to be the most family-friendly government ever, but now we see the appalling scale of maternity discrimination in the workplace under their watch.

“It’s shocking that three quarters of pregnant women or new mothers report negative experiences at work. Yet fewer than 1 per cent pursued a claim to employment tribunal.

“Underpinning the rise in pregnancy discrimination is the lack of access to justice under this Tory government. The introduction of employment tribunal fees of up to £1200 price most women out of the justice system and give the green light to a small number of disreputable employers to continue discriminating against mothers at work.

“The Government must bring forward plans urgently to raise awareness among employers of their legal obligations to pregnant workers  and a comprehensive strategy for eradicating maternity discrimination.”