The pay gap between men and women is wider than official figures suggest, according to a new report.

Research by Payfinder.com finds that men earn an average 24 per cent more than women, compared to the 19 per cent figure usually quoted.

The survey is likely to lead to fresh pressure on ministers to tackle the gender pay gap - which has increased by five per cent over the last 12 months.

The difference has been increased by the large payouts received by some male executives.

Women also tend to be concentrated in low-paid jobs and find their careers may be damaged by child caring responsibilities.

Unions are expected to make the case for a renewed push to trade secretary Patricia Hewitt - who also doubles as women's minister within the government.