BUSINESS SECRETARY Jonathan Reynolds refused today to commit to supporting a Commons amendment to extend bereavement entitlement for miscarriages before 24 weeks of pregnancy.

Mr Reynolds suggested there may be a “better mechanism” to address the issue than the Employment Rights Bill, which the women and equalities committee has said it intends to amend.

Currently, employees are eligible for statutory parental bereavement leave and pay if a stillbirth occurs after 24 weeks of pregnancy.