British mums costing up their budgets for children's swimwear, water confidence toys and toddler rainwear have to contend with some of the lowest maternity pay rates in Europe.

Childcare charity the Daycare Trust (ST) stated the length and value of leave entitlements in the UK "stands out" when compared with other countries on the continent.

It was reacting to recent draft legislation passed in the European Parliament, which would extend maternity leave by an extra six weeks to 20 weeks on full pay.

The Women's Rights Committee also approved an entitlement to two weeks paternity leave for fathers.

Reviewing the legislation, DT chief executive Alison Garnham remarked: "We would like to see mothers entitled to 26 weeks maternity leave at 90 per cent pay and fathers entitled to four weeks leave at 90 per cent pay."

She added that the benefits to society afforded by the changes will far outweigh the initial costs to government.

Posted by Ed SaltersADNFCR-3005-ID-19639333-ADNFCR