True, the government is extending entitlement to the maternity allowance, enabling more women to take time off work immediately after their child is born.

ECONOMIST: The family

Chancellor George Osborne has proposed a cap of 1% - which is below the expected rise in the cost of living - on increases in most working-age benefits, such as Jobseeker's Allowance and maternity pay, and tax credits for three years from 2013-14.

BBC: Child benefit opt-outs sees late surge