Fathers should be given more rights in a bid to improve their work-life balance, the Equal Opportunities Commission has said.

The watchdog warned that family-friendly initiatives must include fathers rather than focusing solely on women.

As part of National Parent's Week the commission highlighted the fact that UK fathers work the longest hours in Europe - an average 46.9 hours.

It also highlighted the lack of flexible work practices for men.

"Both parents need support so that they can make real choices about how they manage caring for their children with their jobs," said chairman Julie Mellor.

"Many employers still see flexible working or family-friendly working policies as something for women - particularly in male-dominated workplaces."