Lucy Powell MP, Labour’s Shadow Minister for Childcare and Children, commenting on the Family and Childcare Trust report showing that over the past five years childcare costs have risen by 27 per cent, with even part time childcare costs outstripping the average mortgage, said:

“Under David Cameron childcare costs are soaring, adding pressure to family life and shutting parents out of work. At the same time as sky-high costs, there are fewer places available and wages are down £1,600 a year. Rather than help families facing a cost-of-living crisis, this Tory-led Government has slashed tax credit support for childcare and hit family finances so that work doesn’t pay.

“Labour will help working families with the extension of free childcare for three and four year olds with working parents from 15 to 25 hours and guaranteed access to wraparound childcare through primary schools. Labour’s investment in childcare is good for families and good for the economy.”