A major tax-free childcare package will help 13,940 families in East Sussex, local Lib Dem MP Norman Baker said today and 2,660 of those will be in Lewes District.

Working families will get up to £2,000 to ease the cost of childcare as part of a scheme to be rolled out in Autumn 2015. It means a family with two children under 12-years-old could benefit by up to £4,000 a year.

Norman says: “The announcement in the Queen’s Speech provides a huge boost to families in East Sussex. This is something Liberal Democrats have fought for and are now delivering in Government.

“We are committed to building a stronger economy and a fairer society and this helps children get the best start in life.” The Queen’s Speech outlines the legislative agenda for the Coalition Government over the next 12 months.

Norman added: “I am also really pleased that the Lib Dems have managed to secure free school meals for every infant, which will help their health and educational development.

“It comes on top of 15 hours free weekly childcare we have already delivered for all three and four year olds and pupil premium to help our schools.

“All these measures will help parents go to work and provide security for their families.”