Nursery World - Question marks over full rollout of expanded offer as general election is called

The expanded entitlement could be in jeopardy now that a general election has been called for 4 July.

The Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announcing the date of the general election outside Downing Street on 22 May 2024 PHOTO: X

Yesterday the Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, announced a general election would take place on 4 July. Parliament will be dissolved on 30 May.

Sector calls for 'rescue and reform' of early education and childcare

While it is likely the party that wins the next election will honor any policies already in place or in motion, it is unclear whether the 30 hours for all children from working families in September 2025 will be introduced as planned.

It comes just weeks after applications opened for parents to apply for the 15 hours of funding for nine-month-olds, effective from September.

Party promises

In March, Labour’s education secretary said the party could not commit to delivering the expanded entitlement, however the following month shadow minister Nick Thomas-Symonds said Labour would not reduce the number of hours of Government-funded childcare.

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