Part 1E+WGeneral functions of local authority: England

Provision of childcareE+W

[F1 7 Duty to secure early years provision free of charge in accordance with regulationsE+W

(1)An English local authority must secure that early years provision of such description as may be prescribed is available free of charge, in accordance with any regulations under this subsection, for each young child in their area who—

(a)is under compulsory school age, and

(b)is of such description as may be prescribed.

(2)Regulations under subsection (1) may in particular include provision about—

(a)how much early years provision is to be made available in pursuance of the duty imposed by subsection (1);

(b)the times at which, and periods over which, early years provision is to be made available in pursuance of that duty.

(3)In discharging the duty under subsection (1) a local authority must have regard to any guidance given from time to time by the Secretary of State.]