Lib-Dems condemn confused government policy on SEN

Commenting on the Education and Skills Select Committee report on Special Educational Needs, Liberal Democrat Select Committee member Paul Holmes MP said:

"Under the current failing system parents battle a frustrating, legalistic and under-funded system of SEN support. Children are often placed into the cheapest options, rather than those most suited to their needs.

"Both Labour and Conservative Governments have been responsible for closing special schools, however all parties should concentrate on resolving these problems.

"The Government needs to demonstrate clear and strong leadership on the issue instead of leaving local authorities to muddle through the best they can.

"It is time Ministers breathed life into their rhetoric to provide personalised education for every pupil, whether they are better suited to mainstream or special education."

Commenting Liberal Democrat Education spokesperson Stephen Williams MP said:

"The Government needs to clear up the confusion they have created over what they mean by 'inclusion'.

"Parents need clarity about what their child is entitled to.

"When a statement is awarded, parents and schools need to be confident that there will be resources behind that statement. Money must follow the child to wherever they are taught and teachers must be given adequate training."