Local MP Marcus Jones has welcomed a major new childcare package unveiled by the Prime Minister today which will help 310,000 families in the West Midlands.

The Governments’ new Tax-Free Childcare scheme will provide 20 per cent support on childcare costs up to £10,000 per year for each child via a new simple online system. The limit had previously been set at £6,000. This now means support of up to £2,000 per child per year.

In addition, to help more families move off of benefits and into employment, the Government also announced that it will cover the 85 per cent of childcare costs for around 300,000 families receiving Universal Credit, making sure work always pays.

Commenting, Marcus said: “For too long it has been too difficult for many families to find good, affordable childcare.

“This announcement is great news for children and families in Nuneaton. As part of our long-term economic plan, these measures will help parents provide more financial security for their families, while directing extra support to those children from disadvantaged backgrounds.”

Adding, the Prime Minister, David Cameron said: “Tax free childcare is an important part of our long-term economic plan. It will help millions of hard-pressed families with their childcare costs and provide financial security for the future.”