Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what assessment he has made of the potential for the spread of covid-19 from re-opening schools due to parents and carers congregating at schools.

My right hon. Friend, the Secretary of State, has made it clear that schools will only reopen when the scientific advice indicates that it is the right time to do so, based on five key tests. The Department is working closely with the sector on our approach.

The safety of students, parents and staff is our top priority. The Department has published guidance on social distancing in education settings which is available here:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-implementing-social-distancing-in-education-and-childcare-settings/coronavirus-covid-19-implementing-social-distancing-in-education-and-childcare-settings.