Under current rules, workers must have been employed for at least six months before making a flexible working request.

Ministers are expected to confirm the proposals on Thursday, according to The Times.

Bosses will also have to respond to a request for flexible working more quickly than the current three month limit.

The rules will apply to all employees, but will particularly be aimed at helping women, disabled people, parents and carers achieve a better work life balance.

However, Labour has said the proposals do not go far enough.

Deputy leader Angela Raynor said: “Labour will give all workers the right to flexible working from day one on the job – not just the right to request it.

“Flexible working means work fitting around people’s lives not dictating their lives. Labour will make flexible working a force for good.”