Oral Answers to Questions

Lindsay Hoyle Excerpts

Monday 6th December 2021 Commons Chamber

[Nadhim Zahawi]

I thank my hon. Friend for highlighting the great work of our schools. I would be happy to meet him and the headteacher of the high school, Ms Hubert, to discuss plans for how we can build on the success of pupils in Bury.

[Mr Speaker]

We now come to Bridget Phillipson and welcome her as the new shadow Secretary of State.

[Bridget Phillipson (Houghton and Sunderland South) (Lab)]

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I thank the Secretary of State for his warm welcome, and welcome his intention to make a statement later today on the tragic death of Arthur.

The Secretary of State will be aware that in the north-west and the west midlands, just 40% of children aged 12 to 15 have been vaccinated. Will he use the Christmas holidays to vaccinate our children, support schools in planning for next term and get ahead of the virus?

--- Later in debate ---

[Several hon. Members rose—]

[Mr Speaker]

After the sad news that he has announced— that he is stepping down at the next election—I call Barry Sheerman.

[Mr Barry Sheerman (Huddersfield) (Lab/Co-op)]

Thank you, Mr Speaker.

Is the Secretary of State aware that in the 10 years that I chaired the Select Committee on Education, one point came through really strongly—that every bit of money that we put into early years is the best investment that we can possibly make? When are we going to take that seriously and have good, accessible and cheap pre-school care, and the best Sure Start and children’s centres, like those we created under Tony Blair?