Dr. Laura Bambrick:

I do not imagine Mr. McDonnell intended to make that comparison. When measures such as the sick pay scheme are introduced, they are brought in to bring us into line with what is happening elsewhere. If we want to become a modern economy and continue to attract workers who have experience of working in labour markets internationally, we must be on a par with the normal standards those workers expect.

With legislation for leave for domestic violence, maternity, breastfeeding and so on, only the very unusual person will require all the leave. That should be borne in mind. ICTU can only hope any legislation we call for is delivered. We are most fortunate when it happens. A lot of the legislation we have called for is only in the early stages. I return to the point that very few workers will require the legislation and all the measures if they are introduced.