In other reaction, The Federation of Small Businesses said the plan would encourage more women to return to work and boost labour market "flexibility", while the Twins and Multiple Birth Association called it a "step in the right direction".

BBC: Childcare costs scheme 'better for parents'

Jane Denton, director of the Multiple Birth Foundation, said for many couples who have struggled to conceive the prospect of twins is very appealing.

BBC: 'One egg' IVF strategy launched