Three-quarters of new mothers believe their partners are as confident as they are at caring for children and three-fifths reject the traditional view of fathers as the main breadwinners, according to an EOCsurvey.
But the EOC claims current parental leave arrangements prevent fathers from spending enough time with their children. New fathers receive just two weeks' statutory leave.
Jenny Watson, acting chair of the EOC, said, 'Most new mothers and fathers want to decide for themselves how they share leave, but without paid leave it is financially impossible for most to make that choice. Fair leave rights to fathers can only be achieved through shared parental leave, but transferable maternity leave would be a welcome first step.
The Government is expected to extend maternity and paternity leave in the new Work and Families Bill later this month.