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30/01/2003
Blair attacked over plans to scrap NI grammar schools
Ulster Unionist MLA Danny Kennedy has said the Prime Minister is "deluded" in his interpretation of the way forward for education in Northern Ireland.
The former chairman of the assembly’s Education Committee was responding to Mr Blair’s refusal to reject plans to scrap grammar schools and concentrate instead on secondary schools. He also added that this proved “just how out of touch” the Prime Minister is with public opinion in the province.
Following on from the Prime Minister's refusal in the Commons yesterday to reverse the decision to abolish transfer testing, the Shadow Northern Ireland Secretary, Quentin Davies, said: "He made it quite clear that he cares nothing for the future of these fine schools that are a priceless asset to Northern Ireland and the country as a whole. We shall do everything in our power to defend these schools from this quite unjustified threat to their continued existence."
During Prime Minister's Question Time, Conservative MP for Altrincham and Sale West, Graham Brady, asked why the Prime Minister intended to press ahead with Martin McGuinness's "ill-conceived plan to scrap grammar schools" – given that GCSE results were 14% than their British counterparts.
The Prime Minister responded by saying that he "does not believe in returning to a division of children at the age of 11".
NIO Education Minister Jane Kennedy has stated that it was her intention to scrap transfer testing as soon as is practicable.
(AM)
The former chairman of the assembly’s Education Committee was responding to Mr Blair’s refusal to reject plans to scrap grammar schools and concentrate instead on secondary schools. He also added that this proved “just how out of touch” the Prime Minister is with public opinion in the province.
Following on from the Prime Minister's refusal in the Commons yesterday to reverse the decision to abolish transfer testing, the Shadow Northern Ireland Secretary, Quentin Davies, said: "He made it quite clear that he cares nothing for the future of these fine schools that are a priceless asset to Northern Ireland and the country as a whole. We shall do everything in our power to defend these schools from this quite unjustified threat to their continued existence."
During Prime Minister's Question Time, Conservative MP for Altrincham and Sale West, Graham Brady, asked why the Prime Minister intended to press ahead with Martin McGuinness's "ill-conceived plan to scrap grammar schools" – given that GCSE results were 14% than their British counterparts.
The Prime Minister responded by saying that he "does not believe in returning to a division of children at the age of 11".
NIO Education Minister Jane Kennedy has stated that it was her intention to scrap transfer testing as soon as is practicable.
(AM)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
