Moran: Govt must publish scientific advice for reopening schools

Following securing an Urgent Question in the House of Commons today, Liberal Democrat Education spokesperson Layla Moran has called on the Government to release the scientific advice for reopening schools without delay.

Layla Moran also called on the Secretary of State for Education to clarify "what he thinks 'safe' actually means?" in regard to the safety of children returning to school, as well as condemning the Government for failing to consult with teachers and unions.

Following the Urgent Question, Liberal Democrat Education Spokesperson, Layla Moran, said:

"Every day that schools remain shut, the disadvantage gap widens and vulnerable children risk falling through the cracks. But that doesn't mean we should open schools before it's actually safe.

"The Government has failed to consult with school leaders, teachers and unions on the details of its guidance for reopening schools, and that's just not good enough. We need reassurance that the decisions are being made based on public health advice only, and not economic fears.

"That's why I'm calling on the Government to publish all scientific advice it has received on this today, and for a guarantee that all children, of all ages, will be given the equipment and funding to learn safely, either at home or in school."

Local Liberal Democrat campaigner, Danny Simm, added:

I received a messaged from someone who I know, a concerned primary school teacher living in the local area who said "I am interested in how they came to their choice of year groups? Also how is it considered possible for children especially youngest, to be social distancing themselves throughout the day from each other and adults? Where is the transparency of science data and information behind decision and timing?"

I thought this was a fantastic question and when I heard Layla was granted an urgent question in the commons I sent the questions to her and was delighted when I watched the Urgent Question on education today to see that Layla has expressed the concerns that I'd forwarded onto her.

I did not find the governments answer to be satisfactory.