In December 2000, the DTI predicted that 70 per cent of new fathers would take up their two-week paid paternity leave entitlement in the first year.
But figures for April 2003 to April 2004 show that out of the estimated 450,000 employed fathers eligible for paternity leave, only 79,210 had used up their entitlement.
A spokesperson from the DTI said that it 'recognises the fact that fathers'
take-up of paid paternity leave and flexible working is going to be initially lower than mothers', as men's childcare responsibilities are still not taken seriously in many workplaces'. But he added, 'To change workplace and social attitudes, men must come forward and take up the new rights we have given them.'
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