Covid-19: Effect on Education in Deprived Communities

Debate between Baroness Stuart of Edgbaston and Baroness Barran

Wednesday 23rd February 2022 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Stuart of Edgbaston (CB)]

My Lords, does the Minister accept that the impact on preschool children of the loss of educational provision in the past two years is disproportionately affecting their life chances? Will she therefore ensure that not only early childhood education provisions but the providers of preschool facilities, which are probably most impacted in deprived areas, are supported?

[Baroness Barran (Con)]

I partly agree with the noble Baroness about the disproportionate impact. I absolutely agree with her about the science of early childhood development and how important it is that we prioritise children in the first 1,000 days of their life. However, equally, for those children who have less time remaining in education, it has been incredibly important that we focus on them—for example, lengthening the school week for those in 16 to 19 courses.

European Football Championships: Travel

Debate between Baroness Stuart of Edgbaston and Baroness Barran

Monday 21st June 2021 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Barran (Con)]

I recognise the issues that the noble Lord raises; he is not alone in feeling concerned by some of the events that were broadcast over the weekend.

[Baroness Stuart of Edgbaston (Non-Afl)]

My Lords, I reinforce what the noble Lord, Lord Berkeley, said about communal singing and the comparisons with football. The Minister mentioned that whoever comes in will be subject to a “strict code of conduct”. Will the Government make it absolutely clear what sanctions will be imposed on those who breach any of the rules associated with that code?

[Baroness Barran (Con)]

I am not familiar with the details of that, but I imagine it would be the responsibility of UEFA and the international football associations, since it would apply to non-UK citizens.