Head of German opposition takes three months leave to care for baby

The head of Germany's main opposition party has announced he is taking leave over the summer to care for his newborn daughter.

Sigmar Gabriel told the daily Bild news he is taking three months out to allow his partner to go back to work.

German parents can between them take up to 14 months leave after the birth of a child at close to full pay. A couple can share this time but both must take a minimum of two months.

In reply to Bild's question as to how the first few days are going, Gabriel replied: "Sleep is overrated."