School-based Nursery Capital Grants

Neil O'Brien Excerpts

Wednesday 2nd April 2025 Commons Chamber

[Bridget Phillipson]

I am glad that the right hon. Gentleman likes a bit of hope and optimism; I think we could all do with a bit of hope and optimism in the current world. The leadership contest I am really looking forward to is the one that we are going to see very soon in his own party. It will be a treat for all of us in this House, although I hope it does not happen, because I would much prefer for things to carry on just as they are.

I note the questions that the right hon. Gentleman asks. We have secured an extra £2 billion in the Budget, taking the total to £8 billion for early years entitlements. In addition, we have a £75 million expansion grant, compensation for public sector employers and, alongside that, the biggest ever uplift in the early years pupil premium. We are working very closely with the sector to deliver the places and the staff required, and we will continue to do so in the months ahead.

[Neil O’Brien (Harborough, Oadby and Wigston) (Con)]

Answer the question!

[Bridget Phillipson]

In answer to the question, this is the first phase, and we will roll out the 3,000 over the course of this Parliament.