Question to the Department for Education:

To ask His Majesty's Government what plans they have, if any, to provide detailed surveys to identify issues such as asbestos and unstable concrete before purchasing sites for free schools.

LocatED is the government owned property company responsible for buying and developing free school sites. The department works closely with LocatED and remains committed to acquiring suitable, safe and affordable sites in order to deliver new school places.

Technical experts carry out due diligence prior to acquisition to make sure sites are safe. The risks associated with these sites are taken into full consideration as part of the acquisition process. This is in line with standard industry practice.