The typical length of time spent working has risen considerably in the UK over the course of the past decade, according to a recent study by the employment law firm Peninsula.

In 1997, just over a quarter of British employees worked for more than 48 hours per week, while this figure increased to 30 per cent in 2002 and now stands at around 36 per cent, HRzone reports.

The findings could make Britons more inclined to investigate home-based working options and show that men generally work longer each week than their female counterparts.

"Working longer hours can put a strain on personal life and it’s ideal if businesses can offer increased flexibility working," said Alan Price, head of human resources business practice at Peninsula.

"However, this may be easier for larger companies to implement but not necessarily the case for smaller firms who will struggle to juggle staff and labour costs and ensure productivity is not compromised."

Meanwhile, Londoners who work from home are likely to be unaffected by the strike called this week on the London Underground by members of the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers.