The prime minister is attending the UK-Nordic/Baltic summit today. Much of the focus is on women in the boardroom – an important issue. But as he prepares for the March budget, the PM should ponder these two graphs, highlighting the role of childcare in the Scandinavian countries.
Participation in formal childcare by children under 3 years, 1995-2008 (%)
NOSOSCO (2006-2007) and NOMESCO
Employment rate, female, 15-64 (%)
Universal, affordable childcare is a key step on the Nordic path back to full employment.
