For decades British politicians have agreed that boosting social mobility and reducing child poverty are essential if Britain is to fulfil its potential, be at ease with itself and be confident about the future. The Attlee welfare state and the Butler education reforms, perhaps two of the most significant political reforms of the last century, expressed this consensus. The Thatcher and Blair Governments made aspiration their political calling cards.
The Coalition Government of 2010-15 placed itself squarely in this political tradition by committing to make Britain “an aspiration nation”, one that seeks to be truly meritocratic and free of child poverty.