Oral Answers to Questions

Sara Britcliffe Excerpts

Monday 27th February 2023 Commons Chamber

[Gillian Keegan]

Let me take the opportunity to thank all those working in this sector. I know they do incredible work, and it is difficult with the spike in inflation and the rising cost of energy. We always monitor the situation and sufficiency of places. We have spent £3.5 billion in each of the past three years, and we have provided support with energy bills. We are focused on halving inflation, but we recognise the challenges and will always do more. I am very happy to meet the hon. Gentleman.

[Sara Britcliffe (Hyndburn) (Con)]

T6. I recently met primary and secondary school headteachers. The consensus among them was that there were still significant concerns regarding budgets, and how they fund pay awards and energy costs. The autumn statement provided billions of extra support and the energy bills discount scheme. Has the Secretary of State made an assessment of how that will help their budgets going forward and whether it will relieve financial pressures?