The Conservatives yesterday detailed plans for higher maternity payments.

Michael Howard said that around a quarter of a million families would also gain from more flexible arrangements.

Maternity pay would be boosted by £1,400 under the proposals, while from 2007 mothers would be able to choose between extending their maternity period from six to nine months or taking an increased amount for six months.

By 2008/09, families would receive £50 a week of tax credits for each child under five to assist with childcare costs.