Early Education and Childcare

Kirsteen Sullivan Excerpts

Thursday 4th September 2025 Commons Chamber

[Stephen Morgan]

I know that the hon. Member will have listened closely to my statement. I commend the hard work of the sector across the country in delivering the milestone that we have met today—an increase in those providing the entitlement offer by 5,800 and an uplift in the workforce of 18,000. We will be spending £9 billion on early education next year, and I am really keen to continue my work with the sector to bring about the change that people voted for at the election last year.

[Kirsteen Sullivan (Bathgate and Linlithgow) (Lab/Co-op)]

As a mother who at one point had three children under four and had to take time out of the workplace, I welcome the great strides made by this Labour Government to support parents and children. In Scotland, parents have access to 1,140 funded hours, but for too many parents—particularly those who want to work in the hospitality, retail and care sectors—that just does not work, due to the inflexible nature of those hours. Will the Minister commit to learning the lessons from Scotland and consider flexible hours going forward?

[Madam Deputy Speaker (Judith Cummins)]

I remind Members that a lot of people want to get in. Please keep your questions short.