Opinion: Keep care affordable

Today, few parents can afford to stay at home to look after their young children. Living costs mean that most parents don't choose to work - they have to work. This is especially true for London parents, who experience the highest cost of living in the UK, including childcare that is 25 per cent more than the average national rate. By cruel irony, London also has above-average child poverty rates. It is therefore essential that parents have access to affordable, quality childcare. As Mayor, I would make this a policy priority.