More than nine in 10 banking and financial services professionals in the UK work beyond their contracted hours every week, according to a new survey, laying bare the extent of the City’s long-hours culture.

Almost half, or 47%, said that they do not leave the office or take a break at lunchtime, according to the survey by Morgan McKinley. The recruitment company canvassed the views of around 480 finance workers in an informal poll, a spokeswoman said.