Over 10 million children 'work in slave-like conditions'

Some 10.5 million children are believed to be working as domestic labourers worldwide, according to a new report.

The International Labour Organization (ILO) says that many work in conditions that are dangerous, sometimes verging on slavery.

The ILO says domestic child labour remains largely hidden and is calling for new international regulations.

The report also suggests that the children are vulnerable to physical and sexual violence.

The report, released to mark the World Day Against Child Labour, suggests that most child workers are under the age of 14 and over 71% are girls. They are often denied access to education.

Because the work takes place within homes, it is difficult to regulate.

The report also stresses that domestic work is an important source of employment, especially for millions of women.