The firm’s analysis of ONS data shows that the difference in the hourly pay gap between men and women is closing at a rate of just 2.5 pence per annum, while in certain occupations, such as skilled trades and education, the gap is actually widening. Even in female-dominated occupations, such as teaching and caring, men receive considerably higher average pay.

Deloitte says the gender pay gap has a variety of complex causes, and it will take a flexible and sustainable approach to eliminate it, but points out that the gap in starting salaries between men and women who have studied Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects, and who go on to take jobs in these sectors, is far smaller.

Emma Codd, managing partner for talent at Deloitte, said: ‘Starting at GCSE level, where three times more boys than girls take computing and 50% more boys than girls study design and technology, these early decisions drive fundamental skill differences between the genders for those entering the workplace. The trend is likely to continue unless it is addressed now.

‘We know that the pay gap is far smaller for those women starting their careers in STEM related roles; we also know that high-skilled jobs demanding a blend of cognitive, social and technical skills are typically among the most highly-paid. Therefore, if more women study STEM subjects and pursue related careers they will increase their earnings potential in the early years of their working lives and - should they remain in their careers - the later ones. This in turn should serve to reduce the gender pay gap.’

Deloitte says more must be done to encourage girls from an early age to understand the impact that their choice of studies can have on their career option, while businesses in STEM related professions must show that they can offer attractive career options for women.

Current research indicates that women make up just 14.4% of individuals working in STEM occupations in the UK, while as many as 70% of women with STEM qualifications were not working in STEM-related industries.

Codd said: ‘While educators and policy makers will need to focus on tackling this challenge, the impact that employers can make should not be under-estimated. Whether it is providing educators and policymakers with practical insights into career requirements, giving students access to mentors in the STEM professions, or ensuring that the workplace is an environment where women can build successful careers, each business has a part to play. A great deal of progress has been made in the past half century, but we should not wait another 53 years for full parity.’