Ministers ban phrase ‘free childcare’ as anger over nursery fees grows

Ministers have banned the use of the term “free childcare” for a government policy offering 30 “free” hours of childcare to children aged nine months and older, following criticism over nursery fees. The policy, announced by Tory Jeremy Hunt in a last-ditch effort to retain power, will be expanded next September but will now be referred to as “funded” hours instead of “free.” This change aims to clarify expectations for the scheme, as parents may still be charged for additional items such as food and nappies.

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