Editor's view

Alan Millburn's resignation as health secretary may have generated the most headlines in last week's ministerial reshuffle, but for the early years sector it is the return of Margaret Hodge as the first-ever Minister for Children that is of greatest significance. Hodge's previous spell as early years minister overseeing the national childcare strategy was certainly action-packed. She is reportedly absolutely delighted to be back in this arena after a troubled time in charge of higher education, where she made few friends. Whether the early years sector will feel quite such unalloyed joy is open to question after her championing such...