Part 1

General functions of local authority: England

Provision of childcare

Duty to secure early years provision free of charge in accordance with regulations
7
1
An English local authority must secure that early years provision of such description as may be prescribed is available free of charge, in accordance with any regulations under this subsection, for each young child in their area who—
a
is under compulsory school age, and
b
is of such description as may be prescribed.
2
Regulations under subsection (1) may in particular include provision about—
a
how much early years provision is to be made available in pursuance of the duty imposed by subsection (1);
b
the times at which, and periods over which, early years provision is to be made available in pursuance of that duty.
3
In discharging the duty under subsection (1) a local authority must have regard to any guidance given from time to time by the Secretary of State.
S. 7 in force at 1.9.2008 in so far as not already in force by
S.I. 2008/2261
,
art. 2
(with
Sch. 1
)
S. 7 substituted (1.9.2012 for specified purposes, 1.9.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Education Act 2011 (c. 21), ss. 1(2), 82(3); S.I. 2012/1087, art. 3; S.I. 2012/2213, art. 5
S. 7 in force at 1.4.2008 for specified purposes by S.I. 2008/785 , art. 2(a)