Breastfeeding at work promoted

(EPA)

Companies should help new mothers to return to work by providing them with breastfeeding facilities or by allowing them to bring their babies to work, the Health Secretary, Andrew Lansley, said at the weekend. He is urging firms to set up areas where they can breastfeed and to supply fridges or cool-boxes to store expressed milk.

However, a public health White Paper this week will stop short of ordering companies to take such a step. Bosses are to be urged to be flexible over when mothers can take breaks. The proposals would also allow women to go home during the day to breastfeed.