Over two-thirds of senior British executives check their email remotely while on holiday, new research has found.

The study by consultancy Aziz found that 68 per cent of executives take a remote email access device, such as BlackBerry, palmtop or laptop, on holiday to check work accounts. 

Just under half check their mail at least once a day, rising to 68 per cent for BlackBerry owners. Just under three quarters, however, only respond to urgent matters.

Almost eight in 10 business people in the UK believe that accessing email while away makes returning to the office after a holiday easier. For 12 per cent, checking email provides a welcome break from family while away.

"Our research reveals that British bosses want to be contactable during their annual leave. They like to be kept informed and, whilst this does not mean jumping on the phone in response to every email, it does allow them to be available if needed and keeps them in the loop," said Professor Khalid Aziz, chairman of Aziz.

"For the majority, the odd phone call interruption or taking the time to have a quick look at emails is hugely preferable to arriving back from holiday to a full inbox and a mountain of information to catch up on."

Although two-thirds of executives think that mobile technology means they can never switch off from work, fewer than half believe it has led to them working longer hours.

"We all need to have time away from the office to recharge our batteries and enjoy our hobbies and families," said Aziz.

"However, commitments are a corollary of seniority and long hours are a fact of life for many.

"Remote access technology has revolutionised the way we work, allowing us to stay in touch wherever we are. It provides a means of working more conveniently and productively and, as such, is warmly welcomed by Britain's business leaders. "