Dads who can spend equal time in the office and out with their toddler harnesses are valuable employees.

This is according to Rob Williams, the chief executive for the Fatherhood Institute, who has underlined how paternity leave plans are well worth investing in for companies.

He said firms are currently working out the logistics of how a change in the law next year will affect them.

Under the legislation, mothers will be able to transfer six months of their maternity leave to the baby's father, meaning dads could spend more time off work helping with changing bags and children's back carriers.

Mr Williams remarked: "I think that the practicalities are not insurmountable.

"If you are a man and you are expecting your first child, it is [up] to you to go and find out what is available."

His comments follow recent research which found 56 per cent of fathers of kids under 16 surveyed by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills would look for an employer who offers flexible working options.ADNFCR-3005-ID-19628259-ADNFCR