Tackling disadvantage must start before school

When money is tight, where a party chooses to spend says something important about that party's values.

So Monday was an important day for Liberal Democrats - as Nick Clegg launches our £760m investment to provide a free early years education for every disadvantaged two year old.

From Monday, for the first time ever, 130,000 two year olds from the poorest homes become eligible for a free place with a nursery or childminder. And we have announced that, from next year, this same offer will be extended to families earning less than £16,000, adopted children and those with special educational needs or a disability.

This support won't just be a helping hand for families who are struggling to make ends meet - it has the potential to transform the life chances of children up and down the country. Liberal Democrats have long argued that a high quality early years education makes the biggest difference to a child's life. Yet, under Labour, six out of ten two year olds from the poorest families did not experience any formal early education at all - compared to just three out of ten who missed out in the richest families. This meant some children falling behind before they had even walked through the school gates.

You can find out how many children in your area could benefit here. And, if you know a family who might be eligible, please urge them to contact their local council to claim their place.

In government, Liberal Democrats have won the argument for investment in early years education. Together with the pupil premium, this scheme will mean a real, fighting chance for all children - so that in the future no one is held back by the circumstances of their birth.

* David Laws is Liberal Democrat Minister for Schools.