The European Union (EU) is committed to ensuring gender gaps in employment and other fields are closed, a new statement has revealed.

According to the Council of the European Union, a pact relating to equality in this area has now been adopted.

It covers the period between 2011 and 2020 and is intended to promote a better work-life balance for both sexes.

The statement calls on member states to tackle gender stereotypes in the workplace, combat violence against women, ensure equal pay, improve the supply of childcare services and promote flexible working measures.

A poll carried out in the UK to mark International Women's Day has indicated 48 per cent of females surveyed defined themselves as the main earners in their families, with 61 per cent of those in work claiming they are chiefly responsible for raising the issue of finance at home.

In addition, the Bright Grey study found 44 per cent of women with jobs are primarily in charge of making major fiscal decisions in their households.

Posted by Kate Griffin