The Welsh Conservatives have responded to encouraging reports that the Welsh Government is considering a U-turn on its childcare funding settlement, suggesting it could also provide it to parents in education and training, not just work.

Commenting, Welsh Conservative and Shadow Children’s Minister Janet Finch-Saunders AM, said:

“Parents in education and training are there to get themselves into good jobs so need the same flexibility as working parents.

“That’s why the Welsh Conservatives submitted such an amendment at stage two of  the Childcare Funding Bill. It is a shame the Welsh Labour Government are having to backtrack now when they had the chance first time around.

“This much needed change to childcare funding is much needed, much desired, and widely supported with other parties and bodies like the Children’s Commissioner on board.

“Our message to the Welsh Labour Government is: don’t drag your heels and get on with it.”

She added:

“The Welsh Conservatives have always made efforts to support those in education and training, evident in our policy to give young carers a grant so they don’t have to choose between their loved ones and their career potential.”