CYP Now - Analysis: Liberal Democrat Conference - Lib Dems endorse childcare pledge

With investment in early years provision making its way rapidly up the political agenda, what the main parties have to offer is coming under increased scrutiny. Daniel Martin was at the Liberal Democrats' conference to find out what the party line is.

For the first time, there seems to be a consensus across all parties that investment in early years is a real vote winner.

The Liberal Democrats started the ball rolling last week at its party conference in Bournemouth by pledging to increase childcare investment beyond the generous rises promised by the Labour Government.

Phil Willis, the party's education spokesman, delivered a rousing speech casting doubt on Labour's achievements on early years.

"A quality education begins from when a child is born: supporting parents, identifying risk and providing the very best start for every child," he said. "It means giving all vulnerable children access to high-quality children's centres with childcare, social care, education and healthcare delivered as an integrated package.

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