§ Mr. WillisTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills whether the Childminding National Standards for England, Standard 2 section prohibits more than one baby under one year in a child minding setting; and what consultations were carried out prior to setting this standard. [109539]
§ Maria EagleThe National Standards for under 8s child minding require that childminders should normally look after no more than one child under one-year-old. Ofsted guidance indicates that each case should be considered on its merits. Exceptions can be made to accommodate siblings. The National Standards were finalised in 2001 after extensive consultation. We are reviewing the Standards this year and, alongside other matters, are proposing to allow child minders to care for more than one baby under one if child minders have the necessary experience or training.