Early years funding: Grant will be wiped out by NICs hike - exempt childcare providers now

EMBARGO: Immediate Release

Responding to the Government's announcement of a £2 billion funding package for early years provision, Munira Wilson MP, Liberal Democrat Education Spokesperson, said: 

"Of course we Liberal Democrats will welcome any additional funding for our overstretched early years sector. However, this grant will be wiped out by the Chancellor's national insurance tax hike - leaving parents and providers alike still facing the nightmare of price rises and closures.

“After a decade of Conservative underfunding, now this Government is turning a blind eye to the damage that their NICs policy will wreak on early years provision.

"I was incredibly proud to table a motion to exempt childcare providers from the national insurance tax rise. I’m calling again today for parliamentarians across the aisle to back it - forcing the government to take action on this crucial issue."

ENDS

Notes to Editor:

Please find the Government report on the early years funding package here.