Tax breaks could be offered to parents employing nannies under plans being considered by the government.

Launched for consultation on Monday, the proposals would also offer funding towards the costs of sending children to after-school and holiday clubs.

Both nannies and organisers of clubs would have to register with the government, as well as undergo first aid training.

"We want all parents to have access to affordable and good-quality childcare," said children's minister Margaret Hodge.

"Expanding the range of children eligible should help thousands of families."

At present, the Child Tax Credit is limited only to families using childminders and nurseries.

The changes could come into force in April next year - around the time a general election is expected to be held.

Hodge predicted it would become a vote-winner for Labour not only then, but in the forthcoming local and European ballots.

"Childcare is now top of the agenda for this election campaign," she said.

"It will be a major issue for parents and families come polling day.

"Our new plans - and the priority we will give this issue in our manifesto - will show mums and dads that Labour is on their side, understands the pressures they face nowadays and is coming up with new ways to help them balance work and family life.

"And we will be taking every opportunity we can to ram home the message that the Tories are committed to cutting childcare as part of their plans to cut an immediate £18 billion from public spending."