PLANS to double paid paternity leave from two to four weeks are to be considered by the SNP conference.
SNP MSP Fulton MacGregor says existing rights for fathers mean the "burden of childcare" falls "disproportionately on mothers".
MacGregor has lodged a resolution calling for the doubling of paternity leave at the SNP's conference in Aberdeen.
The motion is highlighted in a confidential provisional agenda for the conference on June 8 and 9.
Under existing arrangements, powers over parental leave are reserved to Westminster.
However, MacGregor believes the UK Government should double paternity leave.
"The burden of childcare should not fall disproportionately on mothers," the motion states. "International research ... shows a link between increased paternity leave and a range of positive outcomes including greater maternal wellbeing and reduced incidence of postnatal depression."
The Coatbridge and Chryston MSP also calls on Scottish employers to voluntarily offer four weeks paid paternity leave to workers.
"Some employers offer enhanced leave or pay including the Scottish Government which offers staff four weeks’ paternity leave on full pay," the motion adds.
The resolution is backed by the SNP's trade union group.
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