Â鶹Éç

The last few weeks have seen sexual abuse allegations emerge in Hollywood, Westminster, the art world, and, most recently, comedy. On Friday, comedian Louis CK, whose jokes have previously been lauded for their feminist tone, admitted to allegations of masturbating in front of women. Comedian Deborah Frances-White and Journalist Hadley Freeman join Jenni to discuss his apology, and what it means for the comedy world.

Many parents of children with learning disabilities fear for the time when they can no longer take care of their child. Who will take charge, who will pay and how well will they do the role? Jenni talks to 78 year old Bernie whose son Geoffrey, aged 39, has Down's Syndrome and Fran Crake who runs Thrive, a support service for older parents and carers at the charity Talbot House in Manchester.

In January the Women & Equalities Committee published a report called Women In The House which called on the main political parties to make improvements on women's representation in Parliament, the abuse and intimidation of candidates, and the working environment in Westminster. Today they meet to find out what progress has been made. Maria Miller MP, the Chair of the committee, tells us what she hopes to hear.

Susie Boyt's sixth novel is a highly strung comedy about show business and grief. She focuses on the members of two families whose paths intertwine through fame and loss. Eve is a nervous young actress from a powerful theatrical dynasty who marries an even-tempered expert on anxiety. Tabloid journalist Rebecca relies upon her older sister, Beach, a grief counsellor, for love and reassurance. Susie Boyt tells us about the inspiration behind the themes in her book.

Self-employed mothers are calling on the government to change the maternity pay ruling. Currently new mothers who work for themselves get maternity allowance but no statutory maternity pay. Those who have an employer receive 90% of their salaries for the first six weeks of maternity leave, paid by the government. Dr Kristy Lau speaks to Jenni who leads the 'Six Weeks Support' campaign, and Aleah Basu, who is a self-employed new mum.

Presented by Jenni Murray
Produced by Jane Thurlow.