Political Editor - Reading and Kendrick Grammar schools

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Reading and Kendrick Grammar schools

Following John Redwood's concerns that the NUT is lobbying to abolish both Reading and Kendrick Grammar schools, he raised the matter in the House of Commons yesterday during the Education Debate.

He said:
(extract from Hansard)
Mr. John Redwood (Wokingham) (Con): I do not want to delay the business either, as this is an important Bill that we wish to scrutinise carefully. Like other contributors, I fear that there is not enough time under the timetabling motion.

"I am particularly disturbed that the National Union of Teachers is running a campaign to influence hon. Members, as I have received two or three standard letters asking us to use this opportunity to vote down all selection by aptitude or ability. Two very fine grammar schools serve my constituency.

"The majority of my constituents, and I, want to sustain them so that they can flourish, and I am not sure that there is adequate time under the programme motion to debate that crucial point and remain in order.

"I hope that the Government will join us in saying that fine grammar schools that are well supported by local communities have every right to life, and should not be threatened. I am not sure why the NUT think that we can vote today or tomorrow to stop that practice, but it is important to tell people outside the House about its campaign to destroy fine grammar schools, and to put on the record our staunch support for those schools.

Editor's Note:
Monday's press release is pasted below for ease of reference.

Redwood Hits out at NUT Plans to Abolish Kendrick and Reading Grammar Schools

The Rt Hon John Redwood MP today hit out at an NUT (National Union of Teachers) campaign to abolish Grammar Schools in Berkshire. Their latest campaign calls for government to: "establish for all schools admissions policies that are free of selection by ability or aptitude"

Mr Redwood said: "I want to see every child and student in Wokingham given the best possible opportunity to succeed. Kendrick and Reading grammar schools achieve outstanding results and we should be proud of their achievements.

"I will not vote for their abolition in the House of Commons and hope local NUT members will think again about supporting this initiative."

Note to Editors:
Based on this standard campaign letter from members & supporters of the NUT, they would not only abolish our local grammar schools but would also stop Berkshire independent schools selecting pupils by aptitude as well

For further information:

John Redwood on 07711 486 555

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