Bridget Phillipson expressed frustration over the overshadowing of crucial policies by the noise surrounding Labour leadership speculations and the Peter Mandelson scandal in Westminster. The Education Secretary highlighted the milestone of serving 10 million free breakfasts to children in new clubs across England, aiming to alleviate the financial burden and morning childcare stress on parents.
Amid a divided Labour Party, with Wes Streeting and Andy Burnham contending to replace Keir Starmer, Phillipson emphasized the government’s efforts to lift a record number of children out of poverty. She mentioned measures such as ending the two-child limit and expanding free school meals to all families on Universal Credit.
Phillipson criticized Streeting’s proposal to revive Sure Start centers, stating that the current Best Start Family Hubs initiative builds upon past experiences while adapting to modern parenting needs. She also questioned Reform UK’s priorities, noting their support for tax breaks for private schools but opposition to free breakfast clubs, which have already benefited over 300,000 children.
The government has committed to providing free breakfast clubs in all state primary schools by 2029, with the scheme saving families up to £450 and 95 hours annually. Phillipson will communicate progress on the rollout to schools in England, coinciding with Rachel Reeves’ introduction of the Great British Summer Saving scheme aimed at reducing costs for families during the summer months.
