Oral Answers to Questions

Maria Caulfield Excerpts

Wednesday 19th April 2017 Commons Chamber

[The Prime Minister]

The proposals for the configuration of health services in local areas is a matter that is being determined by local commissions in the best interests of services in the local area.

I am interested that the hon. Lady refers to the views of her constituents in Darlington. She has said of the Leader of the Opposition, the leader of her party:

“My constituents in Darlington have made it clear to me that they cannot support the Labour party under your leadership.”

How can they possibly support him as leader of the country?

[Maria Caulfield (Lewes) (Con)]

Q9. May I welcome the fact that, because the Conservatives have managed the economy so well, there is record school funding this year? East Sussex, for example, has some of the best performing schools in the country, and they are set to receive an increase of 3%. However, in Lewes, in my constituency, many of my small rural primary schools are set to see a reduction. Will the Prime Minister guarantee that she will look at the issue of rural primary school funding so that we can even out the distribution of money?

[The Prime Minister]

My hon. Friend is absolutely right to point out the record levels of funding that are going into schools. It is also the case, as I said earlier, that over the years there has been a general acceptance across this House that the current system of funding is not fair in certain parts of the country. That is why we want to end that postcode lottery and look at a system that is fairer and more up to date and that will support our plan for a society where progress is based on merit and not on privilege. I am very happy to look at her concerns. I recognise that small rural schools have particular issues, and I am happy to look at them to ensure that we get the funding formula right and that we can spread the money as fairly as possible.