One in 10 parents of British primary school pupils never reads to their children, a survey says.

And once children start school, just a third of parents read on a daily basis.

The study revealed that one in five parents are too tired to read to their child, while for one in seven parents household chores stand in the way.

Lack of time, homework, TV and work pressures were other significant factors that prevented reading, the poll of 1,500 parents found.

The survey, by publishers Pearson and charity Booktrust, revealed that the average time spent reading was between 10 and 15 minutes.

The research also found that parents in Yorkshire are the most likely never to have read to their children with one in two admitting to the fact, followed by parents in Norfolk & Suffolk.

Parents in London are the most likely to read to their children on a regular basis.

Pearson and Booktrust have joined forces to launch a new campaign to encourage parents and carers to read with their children

They are giving out a free copy of Lynley Dodd's Hairy Maclary's Bone to over 250,000 children in around 7,500 UK schools.

Alan Johnson, Secretary of State for Education and Skills: "Getting more children interested in reading is something that is close to my heart."

Parents and carers will also receive a guidance booklet on the benefits of shared reading.

"Booktrust exists to help readers of all ages and cultures to discover and enjoy reading," said Booktrust director Chris Meade.

"I'm sure Booktime will encourage families to make more time for reading together, and impact on the number of children who stay hooked on books as they grow up."

Marjorie Scardino, chief executive of Pearson, added: "As the world's largest education company and publisher, we want children to learn to read in a way that makes them want to carry on reading all their lives.

"But we know that many children don't have sufficient access to books, let alone the privilege of owning them.

"We hope this will help teachers and parents kickstart a love of reading, which has to be one of the best starts you can give a child in life."

The survey also found that one in seven dads of primary school pupils never share a book with their children.

And over a quarter of parents skip pages to get through books quicker and save time.

Alan Johnson, Secretary of State for Education and Skills, said: "Getting more children interested in reading is something that is close to my heart.

"Being able to read well is the foundation of anyone's education.

"But what's also important is the joy that reading can bring both children and adults throughout their lives.

"That is why initiatives, such as Booktime, that encourage more reading are so important. I wish the programme every success."