Sunak Calls General Election

Sunak Calls General Election

By law a general election has to happen by January 2025 and for almost the last year, speculating has been mounting about when the government will call it. In some ways the budget in March last year was the first real salvo of the long campaign, with Chancellor Jeremy Hunt’s surprise announcement that the childcare entitlement would be extended. This has been followed up with tax cuts, migration policy changes, and a staged smoking ban but ultimately, it was childcare policy that started this election.

So as Rishi Sunak, standing in the pouring rain outside Downing Street laid out what he sees as his achievements in office, and sought to contrast himself with Labour leader Kier Starmer, it is perhaps a little surprising that he made no mention of childcare. There was a brief reference to family finances, and to reading levels but that was it. Neither did Starmer, in his speech delivered inside, flanked by the Union Jack, mention our sector. The closest he came was talking about getting more teachers into the classroom.

But do not be fooled. Childcare will be on the ballot this election, as it always is. The simple truth is that parents vote and for many families, childcare is top of their minds. Both major parties will want to create an appealing offer, as will the smaller parties such as the Liberal Democrats, Greens, and Reform UK, along with the nationalist parties in Wales and Scotland. We can almost certainly expect some announcements as the campaign continues.

For the sector, the most important thing is to make sure our voices are heard. Politicians often want to frame childcare solely in terms of costs not quality, but it is vital that whoever forms the next government, they ensure children are put first.