Topical Questions 2020-01-20
2020-01-20
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
Reports suggested that the Department's learner record service data was shared with a commercial data broker, which the Minister denied.
The Under-Secretary of State for Education responded to questions on free school meals inadequately. About 400,000 children in London alone are at risk of food insecurity. When will universal free school meals be adopted?
I disagree with the assessment that my Under-Secretary did not answer questions on free school meals adequately. The Government supports schemes like breakfast clubs and holiday activity clubs, which are making a significant difference to many young people.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address when universal free school meals will be adopted or the 400,000 children at risk of food insecurity in London.
Changing Topic
Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
Parents in Bob's constituency are trying to set up an Islamic faith school as a free school but Harrow Council is obstructing them.
What will the Government do to encourage and enable parents to establish faith-based free schools if they so wish?
The Government recognises the role of religious and faith organisations in the education system. It is disheartening that Harrow Council's political ideology may deprive young people of educational opportunities, and I will write to the council's chief executive for assurances.
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Assessment & feedback
null
Response accuracy
Q3
Direct Answer
Rosie Cooper
QT9
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Context
Nurseries in Rosie Cooper's constituency are threatened with closure due to inadequate funding.
As nurseries in my constituency are threatened with closure, I ask what assessment has been made of the adequacy of funding for local councils to fund children's services and nursery provision?
We have announced £66 million of extra funding for the coming financial year, which means 8p an hour for early years providers in most local authorities. Additionally, a £60 million top-up has been provided for maintained nursery schools. We monitor the marketplace to ensure sufficient provision and keep this under review.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy