Men must change for in the push for equality

The Women’s Business Council said more women were in jobs than ever before, many running their own businesses, while there were thousands more female graduates in subjects such as maths and science.

But the group, set up two years ago by the Government to boost equality, said male leaders could do more.

Ruby McGregor-Smith, who chairs the council, said: “We are hugely encouraged by the progress that has been made over the last year.

“More women than ever are in employment, the gender pay gap has closed to nearly zero for women under 40 working full time and there are more women sitting on boards than at any time.

“This is not the time to be complacent.

“We must address cultural attitudes in the workplace, often deeply ingrained, if we are to see true gender parity.”

Minister for Women, Nicky Morgan said: “The Government has achieved a lot in the last year, including extending the right to request flexible working to all employees, introducing a system of shared parental leave, and announcing our support for parents of nearly two million children with the tax free childcare scheme.

“This will make a huge difference to women, giving them the support they need to get back into work.

“I want all businesses and employers to play their part by driving forward the cultural change needed to ensure women can achieve their full potential.”