In the UK the government intends to explore new flexible systems of maternity and paternity leave, and also the extension of the right to request flexible working to all employees. The additional paternity leave which came into force in April 2010 will impact on parents of babies due on or after 3 April 2011. If the mother returns to work early, the fathers which are eligible will have the right to take up to 26 weeks of additional paternity leave. Part of the leave will be paid if taken during the mother’s paid leave period.