(Chipping
Barnet) (Con): Schools in the Borough of Barnet are among the best
in the country, and I pay tribute to all the teachers who have been
doing brilliant work in difficult circumstances during this
emergency. Can we have a debate on the return of children to school
in September to ensure that Ministers are engaging with teachers
and unions such as the National Education Unionso
that we have a clear plan to bring children back to the classroom
safely?
The Leader of the House of Commons ( ): My right hon. Friend
raises one of the crucial points of current political debate. It
is important to emphasise that going back to school for children
is safe. I think we are still waiting for the Opposition to make
it clear that they agree it is safe, though perhaps they will
eventually get to saying that clearly, boldly and loudly. The
Government strongly encourage eligible children to attend their
school, nursery or college unless they are self-isolating or
clinically vulnerable. It is very disadvantageous for children to
miss out on education, particularly for those who are most
disadvantaged to start with, so getting children back to school
is a matter of urgency. My right hon. Friend the Education
Secretary will make a statement following this, where he will be
able to provide more details on our plans for schools in
September.
