iamleckie (November 30, 1999 at 12:00 am)

I wish Ms Burt would stop reinforcing the women=mother link because by doing so I don't believe she's helping create a level playing field. As a childfree worker (And Solihull constituent) I believe that parents do get enough concessions in the workplace and that people like myself who have made a decision not to have children are in a minority being ignored. Parenthood is a CHOICE and a choice that comes with sacrifices. What about the rest of us?

robnlarry (November 30, 1999 at 12:00 am)

During the twelfth century women stayed at home and looked after their children. Seriously though nobody makes the case anymore of how important and valuable direct parental care is. In fact it is a taboo to even suggest it. And lets face it most women decide to work not to avoid abject poverty but because they prioritise material wealth over motherhood.

LibDem (November 30, 1999 at 12:00 am)

22071930: she wasn't. Like all the talking head films, she was talking unprompted direct to camera.

22071930 (November 30, 1999 at 12:00 am)

Good policy points, and nice to see a fresh face from the Lib Dems. It's a pity they can't afford to hire a proper autocue: it looks as though Ms Burt is reading from notes propped up below the camera.

u9k13tjc (November 30, 1999 at 12:00 am)

I think you forget that at the end of the day its the choice of people to have children. At present too many concessions are made to parents in the workplace - more leave, time off at a moments notice because 'children are ill', like that can ever be checked. And flexible working does not work for most small companies and it places a harder burden on the childless employees who have to pick up the slack.

trevnan (November 30, 1999 at 12:00 am)

Easy solution, make companies over a certain size have a creche. And the smaller companies give a childcare allowence to their employees with some sort of tax relief to the company. The problem is the business community would fight every step of the way because they are a shower of greedy buggers! They are only interested in growth and returns and driving down costs.