State Schools: Creative Education

Baroness Smith of Basildon Excerpts

Wednesday 15th January 2025 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Smith of Malvern (Lab)]

I have no doubt that a broad education, which also enables children and young people to engage in creative activities, is one of the things that protects against some of the circumstances the noble Lord identifies. As I have my noble friend Lord Timpson sitting alongside me on the Front Bench—

[Baroness Smith of Basildon (Lab)]

He is over there.

[Baroness Smith of Malvern (Lab)]

He flits. I have no doubt that my noble friend has also heard what the noble Lord has to say. He is a strong advocate to me and other Ministers of the need to ensure that, in everything we provide, those in custody can also benefit, because of what it means for them as individuals and for their future ability not to reoffend.