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Barry Sheerman argued during the Second Reading of the Education Bill on Tuesday that more cross-party discussion should take place concerning the Government's proposed reforms to schools.

He hopes greater collaboration between parties can occur in order to better provide the resources that schools need.

"There is always this challenge of getting through to the most deprived families and constituents, and that is difficult for any Government.

I am going to be honest: much of the Bill could have come from the previous Labour Administration. I think some colleagues would agree with that. I shall not vote against its Second Reading because I want to make a plea. The longer I chaired the Select Committee, the more I realised that much of what really works comes when we have agreement across the House."

He continues to urge the government to enact reforms to support both students and teachers. However, he is concerned the proposed Education Bill may degrade current standards of education through the removal of various programs, including the Training and Development Agency for Schools. He also urged the government to consider the challenges affecting families' ability that may be further aggravated by government cuts to children's centres and Sure Start.  

Barry added that an improved Education Bill should include more research on the educational services available in similar countries.

 "We often throw across the Chamber allegations that the other side is being ideological - those on the Government side say it about the Opposition and vice versa - but I cannot find any ideology in this Bill. Indeed, if I were to vote against it, it would be because it is a bit of a mish-mash. There are some very good things in it, but there are also things that I do not really like and want to know much more about."

Barry will continue to fight for measures supporting education across the UK.