Education Funding in London

Debate between Baroness Hodge of Barking and Robert Neill

Wednesday 4th May 2016 Commons Chamber

[Robert Neill]

I am grateful for that point, and I accept it. Provided that we get that built in, this need not be an argument, but rather a question of making sure that any formula reflects the diversity of needs that exists within London.

[Dame Margaret Hodge (Barking) (Lab)]

rose—

[Robert Neill]

I give way to the right hon. Lady, who is very well regarded in London for all her work.

[Dame Margaret Hodge]

I thank the hon. Gentleman and congratulate him on securing this debate. He talked about some of the factors that impact on the differential costs in London and elsewhere. Does he agree that the mobility of families in London is another factor? Two primary schools in my constituency have a 30% turnover every year, meaning that every teacher has to teach 40 children a year. The additional costs of getting to know, assessing and then responding to those needs ought to be had regard to in setting the formula if it is to be fair for every child in the country.