Oral Answers to Questions

Ben Howlett Excerpts

Monday 20th July 2015 Commons Chamber

[Mr Gibb]

I can give the hon. Gentleman this piece of evidence: 25% of the free schools that have been inspected so far are rated outstanding, compared with just 19% of other schools.

[Ben Howlett (Bath) (Con)]

4. What steps her Department is taking to encourage schools to broaden opportunities available for disadvantaged children.

[Graham Evans (Weaver Vale) (Con)]

10. What steps her Department is taking to encourage schools to broaden opportunities available for disadvantaged children.

[The Secretary of State for Education (Nicky Morgan)]

Our education reforms are giving every child, regardless of background, a strong academic grounding and rigorous education. Through the pupil premium—a 2010 Conservative party manifesto commitment—we have invested an extra £6.25 billion in schools so all pupils can fulfil their academic potential. Disadvantaged pupil attainment is increasing and the gap between them and their peers is closing.

[Ben Howlett]

I thank my right hon. Friend for that answer. According to some estimates, one in five children is living in child poverty in my constituency. Many of my local schools are, however, doing a fantastic job of giving local children on the pupil premium equal opportunities. Will the Secretary of State confirm that the introduction of the pupil premium by this Government is improving outcomes for these children?