Paternity leave From April 2003, fathers will be eligible for a fortnight's paternity leave at £100 a week (the same as women). Previously, any time off was given at the employer's discretion.
Maternity pay Statutory maternity pay will increase from £60.20 a week to £75 next year and then to £100 a week in April 2003. Women will receive 90% of their previous earnings if these are less than the flat rate.
Maternity leave The length of maternity leave will increase from 18 to 26 weeks by April 2003.
Adopted children For the first time, adoptive parents will have the same maternity and paternity rights as natural parents.
Small business compensation Small businesses can qualify for complete repayment of maternity/paternity pay, plus 5% compensation for administering it all in the first place. This will apply to an extra 11,000 firms since the National Insurance liability threshold has been increased from £20,000 to £40,000. Ask your accountant or tax office for details.
