Oral Answers to Questions

Diana Johnson Excerpts

Monday 4th July 2022 Commons Chamber

[Michelle Donelan]

I know how hard my hon. Friend has campaigned for that investment. The Greater Manchester Institute of Technology, once open, will play a critical role in filling the local skills gaps in key sectors such as construction, digital and advanced manufacturing, as well as in getting local people high-paid local jobs.

[Dame Diana Johnson (Kingston upon Hull North) (Lab)]

15. What assessment his Department has made of the impact of inflation on school budgets.

[Holly Lynch (Halifax) (Lab)]

18. What assessment his Department has made of the impact of inflation on school budgets.

--- Later in debate ---

[Dame Diana Johnson]

I recently visited Hall Road Primary School, which was built in the 1920s. It is in a disadvantaged part of Hull, but it provides an excellent education to local pupils. The headteacher told me that rising costs in energy were really hitting his limited budget for the school. Is the Minister willing to meet me to discuss what emergency funding could be given to the school to help it, and also so that I can lobby for a new school building?

[Mr Walker]

As I have mentioned a number of times, the school rebuilding programme will be making announcements about schools that need that, and of course I would be happy to meet the right hon. Lady and hear about the particular conditions in that school. I recognise that much of our school estate faces the challenges of aging buildings, and it is important that we continue to invest to support schools where they can spend to save.