Tory Jeremy Hunt announced plans to give children under five 30 “free” hours of childcare in his Budget last year, as part of last-ditch efforts to stay in power. But Labour accused the Tories of announcing a “pledge without a plan”.
The new government will stick with the policy, which will see a massive expansion of the current provision next September. But in a change of tack, they have ditched the word “free” and instead will refer to the hours as “funded”. Ministers said the move was a bid to be “really clear” about expectations for the scheme.
Parents can also be charged extra for everything from food to nappies. And critics argue the scheme gives the wrong impression as the 30 hours are not year-round, and only apply during term time, or for 38 weeks a year.
Denne historien er fra October 20, 2024-utgaven av The Independent.
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Denne historien er fra October 20, 2024-utgaven av The Independent.
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Saints win nine-try thriller with Smith's last-gasp kick
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FAMILY MISFORTUNES
ITV's four-part drama 'Playing Nice' is bland porridge that buries any potential for a good thriller
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Mohammed Nayef Salem tells Maira Butt how an unlikely vocation came to be a lifeline for hundreds of Gaza's children
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'Significant' losses in Kursk for Russia and North Korea
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Police targeted for its 'negligence' leading up to rampage
