News from Cornwall Labour

Lib Dem leader challenged over Cornwall school cash reserves

Up to 20 teaching posts in Cornwall could go, while £20 million of cash for education lies unused in Council coffers.

Labour PPC Jude Robinson has asked for an urgent meeting with Schools Minister Jim Knight, to discuss the issue and is challenging Lib Dem Leader Nick Clegg to ensure that jobs in Cornwall are saved.

Jude said: “It is simple. The money was given by government to be used for our children’s education. It has been held back. Now is crunch time and Cornwall could lose teachers, children are missing out on money given for their education and the opportunity to improve standards in our schools will be missed.”

Cornwall County Council was criticised by the Audit Commission for holding the highest schools reserves of any shire county in England. In response to questions raised by Jude previously, the Minister has said he would consider intervening if the money is not put to use in schools.

Jude added:

“Nick Clegg, the Lib Dem leader has pledged to take money from baby bonds and tax credits to put into education. In Cornwall there is a better option – use the money that was given for the purpose. His MPs in Cornwall have previously opposed moves by government to return the money to schools that need it, his councillors in Cornwall allow the reserves to grow year on year, while teaching posts are threatened. Will Mr Clegg ask his party in Cornwall to put the money where his mouth is?”

Other news from Cornwall Labour

• Hundreds sign Falmouth for Orders petition - 30 January 2012
• Labour and unions campaign for dredging the port of Falmouth - 18 January 2012
• Regional funding put at risk by ministers' failure to act - 8 January 2012