Women in the financial sector are still earning less on average than their male counterparts, according to research by Robert Half Finance & Accounting.

It found that in the past year female finance workers have missed out on more than £31m, almost 20% more than in 2005.

In 2006 female workers earned £11,660 less than their male counterparts, compared with £9,670 less in 2005.

Robert Half's Managing director David Jones says: “While the number of women in management roles is increasing, these figures suggest there remains an inadvertent discrimination in setting male and female salaries. To ensure managers do not alienate female workers it is important to address any inequalities that may exist.”

The survey shows that while both men’s and women’s salaries are increasing; the rate for men is proportionally higher at 5.79%, compared with 2.08% for women.