British politician and barrister, long-serving Labour figure
The SNP has vowed to deliver a brand-new, year-round childcare system from nine months to end of primary school, funded by a £500 million package if re-elected. The plan aims to extend support to every family, with free provision for the lowest-income households and a tapered rollout for others.
Labour has faced mounting calls to quit after the party suffered its worst local election losses in more than three decades. A former minister has signalled she may trigger a leadership contest unless the cabinet acts by Monday. Starmer has reaffirmed his intention to stay on and lead Labour into the next general election.