One in four British mothers feel discriminated against at work, according to a recent survey. Researchers asked 1,975 women about their work experiences. Most of the women never complained to bosses as they thought it would be a waste of time and damage their careers. The survey found mothers were promoted less than junior employees. Another complaint was that their ideas were thought of as less useful than those of colleagues with no children.

Many employers disagree with the survey. A business association said: "We don't recognise the picture painted here." It said: "Businesses are better than ever at managing maternity leave and reintegrating mothers on their return." A politician said the government is helping businesses at all levels to use women's talents. A lawyer was shocked that women did not talk about discrimination. She said employers avoided the issues.