Wes Streeting to promote controversial SEND reforms amid Labour party tensions
Wes Streeting has been drafted by Sir Keir Starmer to promote controversial SEND reforms, amid fears of another rebellion, reports BritPanorama.
Downing Street is “extremely keen” for the Health Secretary – and potential Labour leadership contender – to jointly front a consultation on changes to special needs provisions with Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson. This consultation is expected to be announced later this month and comes at a time of significant funding challenges for special needs in schools.
A Labour source indicated that Streeting is likely to be asked to allocate time away from his Health portfolio to assist with the initiative and quell the potential unrest within the party. Ministers are reportedly planning to restrict the distribution of education, health, and care plans (EHCPs) to children with the most complex needs only.
Despite being primarily under the auspices of the Department for Education, the proposed reforms necessitate strong public support. Streeting’s involvement aims to ensure that Phillipson’s plans are communicated effectively to both the public and party members.
A source close to the Education Secretary remarked, “The schools white paper is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to put millions of children, including those with SEND, on the path to more opportunity and better lives. Bridget is relishing the chance to unveil her vision for our schools.”
The statement continued, “These plans will be quintessentially Labour, creating a new generation of inclusive schools that deliver a brilliant education for every child, not just a lucky few. They will be central to this government’s agenda for national renewal.”
Streeting’s potential leadership aspirations are notable, as he has been given odds of 7/2 to succeed Keir Starmer in the event of a leadership contest.
This evolving narrative around SEND reforms reflects broader themes in UK politics, particularly regarding the balance between educational inclusivity and fiscal constraints. The government’s ability to navigate these challenges while maintaining party cohesion will be instrumental in shaping its future legislative agenda.
