Letter: Childcare tax breaks

FAR from the sinister motives implied in not returning a call from Fran Abrams to comment on a campaign for childcare in the House of Commons ("No room for children in the house", 19 February), may I say that I both support the campaign and returned her call.

I believe that affordable quality childcare is crucial in providing equal opportunities in the workplace and the House of Commons is no exception. Over 1500 staff work in and around the House of Commons and I hope that we can set an example to other employers by practising family friendly policies. I have given my full support to the campaign by various trade unions representing staff of the House of Commons and I will continue to do so.

RUTH KELLY MP

(Bolton West, Lab)

House of Commons

London SW1