Bill preventing future school closures put forward

A bill protecting future closes has been given an unopposed first reading in the Commons.

Robert Halfon, chairman of the Commons Education Committee, has argued closing schools had caused too much harm, and wants ministers to consult the Children's Commissioner on any decisions on closures, and allow MPs a vote on any plans.

The Schools and Education Settings (Essential Infrastructure and Opening During Emergencies) Bill aims to ensure educational settings are classified as "essential infrastructure". This means they would remain open to all students during any public health or other national emergency.

If approved, MPs would then be asked to debate and vote on the issue.

If that is approved, the matter would have to return to Parliament every three weeks, in case of a further extension.

Hamlin said: "Whilst national lockdowns were important to protect the health of the public, school closures have been nothing short of a disaster for our children," said Mr Halfon.

"By ensuring that any decision taken to close schools is done so following the recommendation of the Children's Commissioner, is agreed and voted on by a majority of Parliament, and is strictly time-limited, we can make sure the best interests of the child are considered at every stage to keep children in school.”