Bridget Phillipson, the UK's Education Secretary, has raised alarms about the declining birthrate in Britain, urging young people to consider starting families sooner.

Recent statistics reveal that fertility rates in England and Wales have plummeted to 1.44 children per woman, the lowest level since 1938, significantly below the 2.1 threshold needed for population stability.

Phillipson attributes this falling birthrate to financial pressures, including high living costs and insufficient childcare options, which discourage young people from starting families.

She criticized opposing political proposals, asserting that Labour's initiatives are more comprehensive and family-friendly in addressing these challenges.

To combat these issues, the Labour Government plans to create over 4,000 new childcare places at school-based nurseries across England, set to begin in September.

This initiative aims to help parents balance their career choices with family size decisions, enhancing access to affordable childcare.

Additional measures proposed by the Labour government include free breakfast clubs, expanded free school meals, and capping school uniform costs, all designed to support families.

The Office for Budget Responsibility has warned that the declining birth rate could lead to increased national debt and a reliance on immigration to sustain the population as deaths are projected to surpass births in the coming decade.

Phillipson has previously emphasized that expanded government-funded childcare would provide young parents with more freedom to plan their families while pursuing career aspirations.

Her remarks resonate with similar calls from European leaders, like French President Emmanuel Macron and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who have also implemented policies to encourage higher birth rates.

Phillipson highlighted that over three-quarters of mothers with dependent children are in paid employment, underscoring the necessity for enhanced childcare and family services.

She warned of 'worrying repercussions' for society if the birth rate continues to decline, reflecting the unfulfilled aspirations of many families.