Hon Bill English

National Education Spokesman

28 May 2004

Trevor telling tales over early childhood education

Trevor Mallard is lying about National's position on Budget initiatives for early childhood education, says National's Education spokesman, Bill English.

National has not committed to repeal the 20 free hours of early childhood education for 3 and 4-year-olds.

"Mr Mallard is embarrassed by the public reaction to the fact that his policy excludes 45,000 children from the 20 hours free care because they attend private childcare centres," says Mr English.

Revised figures from the early Childhood Council show the number could be as high as 45,000.

"In the real world, parents don't have time to sort out whether their most convenient early childhood centre fits with Labour's politically correct views on who should run a childcare centre.

"Instead of telling lies to distract the media, he should front up to the parents of the children concerned and explain why they should miss out.

"They will be keen to hear why their children are of less value to the community," says Mr English.

ENDS

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