Maternity leave for non-mothers?

The subject of maternity leave will often result in some fairly heated debates and strong opinions.

So the latest study, which has revealed that 74% of women would support a non-mother maternity leave, will have tongues wagging throughout the country.Those with new babies are currently allowed six months to adjust to the life-changing event but for non-mothers a six-month sabbatical could be used to pursue a dreamed-of project or take the time to travel the world.

But is it fair? Corin Taylor, Senior Policy Adviser at the Institute of Directors, says not.

Corin told Marie Claire: "This is a nonsensical idea in the best of times. But in the deepest post-war recession, granting rights to women without children would be foolish."

Others in the business world tend to agree. Phil McCabe of the Forum of Private Business said: "Many employers would love to offer their staff more flexibility, but it is just not practical for most companies, especially small ones. It's a case of all hands to the pump right now."

And if you thought it was the childless ladies who were supporting the idea, you would be mistaken. In fact, more than two thirds of those surveyed were mothers themselves.

Let us know what you think? Is a six-month sabbatical for childless women a good idea? And what of the non-fathers?