New paid paternity leave rule for England confirmed under Andy Burnham

NewsMidlands NewsEmploymentShabana Mahmood has increased the amount07:21, 12 Aug 2026Paid paternity leave for police in England and Wales is to double under new Labour Party Prime Minister Andy Burnham. It comes after officers were “mocked and ostracised” for taking time off to spend with their babies.‌Birmingham MP Shabana Mahmood has increased the amount of paid parental and adoption leave for officers from one week to two across all forces.‌Policing minister Sarah Jones told the Guardian: “Police officers work tirelessly to protect the public, so it is right that new fathers are better supported to spend time with their families. By expanding police paternity leave, we are recognising the importance of family life.”‌READ MORE Andy Burnham inheritance tax decision as people lose £35,000