Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Olivia Bailey and Darren Paffey

Monday 2nd March 2026 Commons Chamber

[Darren Paffey (Southampton Itchen) (Lab)]

Literacy levels among Southampton’s children remain a challenge, and I commend the work of so many teachers in attempting to close that gap. Can the Minister say how schools in my constituency can best engage with the National Year of Reading? Will she join me in welcoming plans for a Southampton literary festival to inspire a lifelong love of reading in every child in Southampton?

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education (Olivia Bailey)]

I welcome and celebrate the launch of the Southampton literary festival by Bitterne Park school, and I thank my hon. Friend for all his advocacy in his constituency. The National Year of Reading is packed full of exciting events for all to participate in, and I encourage Members to do so.