Context
In 2011-12, only 58% of children met the expected standard of reading. The government implemented evidence-based methods of phonics to improve this.
Question
What steps has her Department taken to improve standards of reading in schools since 2010? Since then, only 63% of children in Bexley met the expected standard of reading. Now it is 81%. There is still much more to be done, but does she share my disappointment that the Labour party opposed those reforms at every opportunity?
Answer from Gillian Keegan
The Conservatives' plan to reform our reading standards completely and expand phonics across our schools has meant that our primary schoolchildren are now the fourth best readers in the world. What was Labour's response? It said that phonics would not work, that our literacy drive was 'dull', and that free schools were 'dangerous'. What is dangerous is the risk of a Labour Government who would collapse educational standards, as Labour has done in Wales.
Not addressed: Specific details on further steps to improve reading standards
How: Criticising Opposition Party'S Stance, Highlighting Negative Consequences Of Opposing Reforms
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