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From: David Wilkes

Sent: Friday, 30 September 2005 12:05 PM

To: Family Responsibilities

Subject: Striking the Balance

I whole heartedly support the aims of this paper. As a man in favour of equality I would love to see a greater distribution of paid and unpaid labour in our society.

The most meaningful work I have undertaken has been in caring for family members including my cousin, father, grandfather and mother. I agree that such work appears devalued in our society but makes a vital contribution, not least of all economic, to the well being of the country.

In my experience and discussions with other men I have found there to be pressure exerted upon men who have wished to change their employment arrangements to make them more family friendly. There seems to be some suspicion if you are a man and wish to work part time to balance your other responsibilities.

I would also concur that we are under ever greater working pressures. My contribution to this paper has been limited because there are just not enough hours in the day.

I hope this document leads to greater discussion and positive action to support all those who wish to pursue more flexible working arrangements.

David Wilkes

30 September 2005