MP Rushanara Ali warns of coalition government’s maternity pay cuts

More than 2000 mums-to-be could be facing a £180 real terms cut to their maternity pay in Bethnal Green and Bow, it has been warned.

MP for Bethnal Green and Bow Rushanara Ali has backed a petition to “help mums not millionaires” in opposition to the coalition government’s plans to cut pregnancy support, tax credits and maternity pay.

She said: “Families shouldn’t have to pay the price of the Government’s failed economic policies - and especially working mums, who already face tough financial pressures when they have a new baby.

“My constituency has the highest rate of child poverty in the country, and this real terms cut to maternity pay for many will be devastating.”