MP seeks daily updates following school closure announcement
Date published: 19 March 2020
Shadow Education Secretary Angela Rayner
Ashton MP Angela Rayner – the Shadow Education Secretary – has welcomed the decision to close all schools from tomorrow, but says more reassurance is needed for pupils, parents and staff.
Speaking in the House of Commons following the announcement, Mrs Rayner - whose constituency includes Failsworth - said: “Let me put on the record our thanks and support for all those working in our education and children’s services through this crisis.
"They, along with parents and learners of all ages, now seek both reassurance and guidance from government.”
Mrs Rayner called on Education Secretary Gavin Williamson to commit to daily updates to be posted on www.gov.uk to set out how the reduced service provided in schools will work.
She also pressed him on free school meals saying that those children currently receiving these need reassurances that this will continue.
Mrs Rayner asked Mr Williamson what procedures had been out into place for children with disabilities and parents with underlying health conditions.
She added: “What advice and support is Mr Williamson offering to special schools, serving those with particularly serious physical conditions, which are often residential?
“The same is true for the education workforce.
"Will he make absolutely clear to all employers that workers in the vulnerable categories identified by the Government must not be placed under pressure to be in work and should be sent home?”
Mrs Rayner raised the issue of teaching staff on casual contracts and supply teachers who are now worried about their salaries.
And she asked for more detailed plans regarding the postponement of SATs, GCSEs and A Levels as well as asking for clarity for childcare providers and what financial support they can seek in these worrying times.
She closed her Commons statement by saying: “Let me turn finally to an area he did not mention but is vital for the most vulnerable, and that is children’s social work.
“Already, children’s services are suffering from years of cuts.
"Now, they will face staff shortages just at a time that there will be greater need than ever.
“The poorest and most vulnerable paid the highest price for austerity.
"We cannot allow them to pay the highest price for this latest crisis too.
“The coronavirus disease presents unprecedented challenges to governments across the world.
"Ours is no different.
“We will overcome it, but it requires Ministers to listen to the concerns of the people outside of this place.
“On this side of the House, we will place the greatest priority on protecting the most vulnerable.
"I urge the Government to do the same.”
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