Rishi Sunak, the British Prime Minister, has addressed concerns regarding the capacity of the UK’s childcare sector to handle the government’s free childcare scheme. He confirmed that measures are being taken to expand the sector, ensuring it can meet the demand for 15 hours of free childcare for working parents of two-year-olds. To support this expansion, the government is implementing initiatives including sign-on bonuses for early years staff and simplifying regulations for childminders. Sunak’s statements came amidst scepticism from the Labour party about the viability of the policy, with Labour MP Pat McFadden emphasizing the need for availability to match entitlement.

In political developments, Sunak has been evasive about the timing of the next general election amidst speculation and pressure for an announcement. Labour has accused him of procrastination, given the Conservative Party’s current standings in the polls. During an interview, Sunak sidestepped a direct question about the election date, a stance that has drawn criticism from various quarters, including the Liberal Democrats. There are hints from Downing Street that the election might be slated for 10th October, strategically positioned to precede the US presidential election in mid-November. Sunak’s focus remains on his agenda amidst the swirling rumours and expectations for an early election.