According to a survey of more than 2,000 Brits by Experian, three quarters of British women say financial responsibility is an attractive quality in a partner, on par with intelligence (74 per cent). Only sense of humour (87 per cent) ranked higher.

With 70 per cent of couples claiming to make all major financial decisions together – and refusing to spend more than an average of £313.46 without their other half’s approval – sharing the same life goals (59 per cent) and family plans (64 per cent) were more important than wealth (21 per cent), occupation (32 per cent) and salary (34 per cent) to women.

Men ranked financial responsibility 20 points lower, leaning more towards physical attractiveness, but being good with money was still in the top five attractive attributes.

Julie Doleman, managing director at Experian Consumer Services, said: “Financial compatibility can be an important part of a successful relationship.”

Where financial priorities are mismatched, conflict ensued. According to Experian’s research the vast majority of Brits had argued over money with their partner. Some six per cent has such arguments regularly, usually over spending.

One in ten couples have had to postpone taking out a joint credit agreement, like a mortgage, because of one partner’s credit score while previous Experian research has shown that 17 per cent of Britons have seen their or their partner’s credit score suffer when linked with that of a less responsible partner.

Doleman concluded: “Talking about money and especially debt can be difficult for some, but if you and your partner have hopes and aspirations together for the future, understanding your financial history, is a really good starting point in realising your dreams for the future. “