Pre-Budget Report - Education and childcare

Detailing his pre-Budget report, chancellor Gordon Brown announced plans for a big expansion in childcare facilities and more help for parents.

Stakeholder Response: Professional Association of Teachers

Jean Gemmell, general secretary of the Professional Association of Teachers, said: "The government's reported childcare measures are welcome. However, universal entitlement will require significant increases in investment, not least in quality staff and training and in salaries that reflect childcarers’ responsibilities. Increased investment will also be required to alleviate the burden on parents, who currently pay the lion’s share of the costs.