Of all the reasons why the Conservatives deserve to lose the next general election, their nonsensical childcare policy is among the most convincing. Labour had needlessly meddled in this sector, with little positive effect on affordability, accessibility, or maternal employment. The Tories could have taken on the vested interests and trades unions, scaled back the state’s involvement, and created a competitive environment with lower costs and greater parental choice.

Instead, on assuming power in 2010, they........

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