Conservative leadership candidate Kemi Badenoch has sparked controversy with her recent comments criticizing what she describes as “excessive” statutory maternity pay. Despite her previous statements, Badenoch clarified her position, emphasizing her belief in maternity pay. Speaking out against the burden of regulation on businesses, she insisted that she supports maternity pay and encouraged people to watch a video clip for the truth.
The Shadow Communities Secretary’s remarks have not gone unnoticed, with some sources close to Badenoch’s campaign accusing other candidates of using the issue to score political points rather than focusing on the goal of returning to government. Badenoch’s stance on statutory maternity pay was brought into question during a recent interview with Times Radio, where she expressed concerns about the government’s involvement in “too much”. She argued that statutory maternity pay is a function of tax, suggesting that it takes from one group of people and gives to another, which she believes is excessive.
In response to criticisms, Badenoch emphasized the need for more personal responsibility and highlighted a time when there was no maternity pay, yet people still had babies. She stressed the importance of creating an environment where individuals can make their own decisions and suggested that the exact amount of maternity pay is not as significant as fostering an environment where people have the freedom to work and make choices.
The issue of statutory maternity pay has become a focal point at the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham, as the leadership contest to replace Rishi Sunak takes center stage. The debate has seen various opinions from different leadership contenders, with Tom Tugendhat emphasizing the importance of choice for women and Robert Jenrick openly disagreeing with Badenoch’s stance, advocating for better support for parents and working mums.
Campaign group Pregnant Then Screwed founder Joeli Brearley denounced the notion that businesses are shutting down due to statutory maternity pay, pointing out that businesses can reclaim the costs from HMRC. She emphasized the vital role of statutory maternity pay in supporting families and women’s health, highlighting its positive impact on infant mortality rates and the well-being of women. Brearley criticized Badenoch’s statements as damaging to families, businesses, and society as a whole.
The Labour Party and Liberal Democrats have also weighed in on the issue, with Labour chairwoman Ellie Reeves criticizing the Conservative Party’s approach and Liberal Democrat spokesperson Christine Jardine highlighting the out-of-touch nature of Badenoch’s comments. Reeves described the Tories as unserious about addressing the country’s problems, while Jardine pointed to the Conservatives’ defeat in the last election as evidence of their disconnect with the public.
Overall, the debate surrounding statutory maternity pay has brought to light differing opinions within the Conservative Party leadership race and highlighted the importance of supporting families and women in the workplace. As the conference continues, it remains to be seen how the candidates will address this issue and what impact it will have on the party’s future direction.
