Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Reading in Schools

Monday 27 January 2025 · 1 question

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 1 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Paul Davies asked about the importance of libraries for child development.
  • The Minister acknowledged the power of reading and its impact on children.
  • The Minister stated a goal to ensure all children meet the required reading standard.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Context

According to the Libraries for Primaries campaign, one in seven state primary schools in the UK lack a dedicated library or reading space, with this figure rising to one in four in disadvantaged communities. Reading for pleasure is crucial for children's academic success and mental wellbeing.

Question

Does the Minister agree that libraries are vital for child development, and what further steps can the Government take to ensure that every primary school has a library?

Answer from The Secretary of State for Education (Bridget Phillipson)

My hon. Friend is absolutely right about the power of reading. We need more children to experience the joy of reading, and I want to drive high standards to ensure that all children meet the required standard in reading.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The specific ask for concrete actions was not addressed; the response focuses on general commitment without detailing steps or timelines.

How: General Commitment

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