Question

Governments have only one response to public criticism of socially necessary services: regulation of the activity of providing those services. But governments inevitably make the activity more expensive by regulating it, and that is particularly troublesome in these times of strained financial resources. However, since public criticism of childcare services has undermined all confidence in such services, and since such services are socially necessary, the government is certain to respond. Which one of the following statements can be inferred from the passage? (A) The quality of child care will improve. (B) The cost of providing child-care services will increase. (C) The government will use funding to foster advances in child care. (D) If public criticism of policy is strongly voiced, the government is certain to respond. (E) If child-care services are not regulated, the cost of providing child care will not increase.

Short answer

The cost of providing child-care services will increase.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Passage

The passage suggests that the government has a consistent response to public criticism of socially necessary services like childcare, which is to regulate them. However, this regulation typically leads to an increase in the cost of providing these services.

Identify Logical Inference

Focus on the effect of government regulation as described in the passage. The passage directly links government regulation with increased costs in the provision of socially necessary services, like childcare.

Examine the Options

Look at each option closely: - Option A discusses improvement in quality, which is not directly linked in the passage. - Option B states that costs will increase, which aligns with the passage's claim about the effect of regulation. - Option C mentions government funding, which is not discussed. - Option D generalizes about government response, but the passage's focus is on regulation as a response. - Option E discusses costs in the absence of regulation, which does not appear in the passage as a consequence of the provided information.

Select the Inferred Statement

Based on the passage, Option B (The cost of providing child-care services will increase) can be directly inferred as it aligns with the passage's statement about the regulation increasing costs.

Key concepts

Government Regulation

Government regulation often serves as the default mechanism when public concern arises over essential community services. This involves creating rules and standards to oversee how these services are delivered, aiming to ensure safety and quality. However, it's crucial to recognize the side effects that can accompany regulation, such as increased administrative and operational costs. These costs occur due to:

• Compliance with new standards requiring additional resources
• Need for regular audits and reporting procedures
• Possible upgrades to current systems to meet regulatory expectations

On the positive side, government regulation can help to establish trust and uniformity in services, potentially improving the overall quality over time.

Public Criticism

Public criticism can significantly influence government actions, especially in the realm of socially necessary services like childcare. When the discourse from the public becomes loud and clear, often highlighting issues such as:

• Safety and reliability concerns
• Lack of accessibility or inadequacy in service provision
• Inequity or discrimination in service access

Governments feel the pressure to address these issues through regulation or reform. While public criticism serves as a catalyst for change, it also brings forth challenges, such as balancing the demands for high standards with the possible increases in service costs.

Childcare Services

Childcare services are vital in supporting families and ensuring healthy child development. These services need to be readily available, affordable, and of high quality. However, they face criticism on numerous fronts:

• Questions of quality, especially concerning child safety and developmental support
• Accessibility issues for lower-income families
• Differences in service quality depending on location

Such criticisms often lead to calls for stricter regulations, which aim to address these issues but might inadvertently affect the cost of services, impacting families and service providers alike.

Cost of Services

The financial aspect of providing socially necessary services like childcare is deeply intertwined with government regulation and public expectations. Regulation can often lead to increased costs due to factors like:

• Compliance with rigorous standards
• Training personnel to meet new regulations
• Upgrading facilities and introducing new technologies

On the flip side, without regulation, the unchecked cost-savings measures by service providers might compromise on quality and safety. Hence, there is a delicate balance to be struck between managing costs and maintaining adequate service levels, ensuring that regulations do not disproportionately affect those who most need access to these essential services.