Gavin Williamson the Education Secretary has said that schools will reopen “when it’s the right time” based on the scientific and medical advice.
Williamson told the House of Commons on Tuesday there will be a “phased approach” in schools being reopened.
The shadow education secretary Rebecca Long-Bailey warned that parents are “anxious” at sending their children back to school.
Williamson told Long-Bailey, “In terms of the return of schools, obviously she, I’m sure, shares with me a desire to see children being in the opportunity of returning to school when it is the right time to do so.
“This will be based on the scientific and medical advice that we receive.
“What I can assure her is that we will take a phased approach in terms of reopening schools and we will always aim to give schools, parents and, of course, critically importantly, children the maximum notice in terms of when this is going to happen.”
In her first speech as the new shadow education secretary Long-Bailey replied, “Constant speculation on when schools will reopen and whether it is safe to do so is leaving many parents, pupils and staff anxious.
“He must understand that faith that children and staff are safe will be necessary for parents to have the confidence to send their children back to school.”
Williamson said, “I take my responsibilities to the safety and the health of children who attend school as the absolute principal motivation for everything I do, as with those who work in schools.
“I’m always welcome to have constructive dialogue with her.”
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