00:01The government is asking competition watchdogs to investigate extra charges facing families
00:06using funded childcare places. Ministers say some parents are still paying large additional
00:11costs despite being entitled to 30 funded childcare hours each week for younger children
00:16in England. Families have reported charges covering meals, nappies, snacks and deposits
00:22before nursery places are confirmed. The Competition and Markets Authority is expected to examine
00:28whether those costs are fair and clearly explained to parents. Nursery groups say many providers
00:34are struggling with rising staffing and operation costs, arguing extra charges help to cover
00:39funding shortfalls affecting childcare services.
