Nearly 30,000 children promised '20 hours free' early childhood education will miss out, according to figures released today.

"The bad news is that it has now been confirmed that tens of thousands of children will miss out on Labour's so-called 'free' early childhood education plan," says National Party Leader John Key.

In the days before the tight 2005 election, Helen Clark promised 'every single child' would benefit, and that 'the 20 hours free education a week will be able to be provided for three and four years olds at any licensed teacher-led service in New Zealand'.

Labour also said 86,000 children would 'definitely' get 20 hours free.

"Clearly, this is not correct.

"For many it will not be free but be subsidised. What's worse is that some centres will be forced to fudge the accounts, cut quality, or impose new charges for 'optional' extras.

"Today's take-up rates are an indictment of how hollow this slogan is. The indications are that in some vulnerable areas, like South Auckland, the take-up rate is at the lower end of the scale. Yet, it was in these very areas that Labour said the policy would have the most impact.

"Rather than crowing about the take-up rates, Helen Clark should be apologising for yet another bungled election pledge.

"Labour has refused for months to reveal how many children will actually access this flawed scheme – the release of these numbers today shows why.

"New Zealanders should be very wary about believing Labour's next round of promises in election year 2008."

Click to download: Media statement Helen Clark announces '20 hours free' – 2 page Word format.