LABOUR has decided that every school in Wyre Forest will be either completely rebuilt or substantially improved. New school buildings are very important. All too often in the past, our children and teaching staff had to make do with buildings not fit for purpose.

This is certainly very relevant to Wyre Forest’s new two-tier entry system, in which buildings have to be radically adapted and upgraded to meet the new organisational requirements.

Labour has doubled the money put into Wyre Forest’s Education since 1997. Education is a top priority for the Labour Party and Government. But new buildings are only one part of the new deal for children in education in Wyre Forest. The other part is to raise education standards and ensure children enjoy a happy and positive experience at school.

May I thank all of our teachers and ancillary staff for providing that experience? As a former Chair of Governors in Kidderminster, I realise how exciting, challenging and sometimes difficult it is to be part of the teaching family, engaged day to day with our children, and sharing their hopes and expectations.

Labour has introduced universal Nursery Education – something the Conservatives did not even address! Labour has also introduced Children’s Centres and Sure Start – both positive helps for young families trying to cope with the demands of modern life.

Now the negative bit! The Conser-vatives will NOT match Labour’s spending commitment on education – cuts would follow. Also and probably worse, the Conservatives will “shake up” education by introducing permission for individuals, charities, and voluntary and parent groups to create new schools.

This is unnecessary and likely to rupture Labour’s plan in Wyre Forest for all schools in the county- administered sector to enjoy raised standards and the new school buildings.

Therefore, the Conservatives pose a threat to Labour’s progress in education, and a threat to Children’s Centres and Sure Start.

The Conservatives priority for “voluntary groups” would mean selection by the back door. I am against selection – every child matters and must be given equal opportunity in education.

Labour has prioritised “lifelong learning” with greater opportunity for everyone to complete further study into adulthood.

We have tens of thousands more young people at university. Industry, commerce and the public sector need more highly educated young people and this is being achieved.

As your MP, I would ensure Labour’s spending commitment to education is continued in Wyre Forest.