Ahead of some schools reopening to more pupils on Monday 1 June, Liberal Democrat Education Spokesperson Layla Moran said: “Ministers have repeatedly claimed to be guided by science through this crisis, yet a number of scientists – including members of SAGE – have expressed concern about the easing of lockdown. It’s deeply worrying that plans to reopen schools are going ahead despite the fact that the COVID-19 risk is still classified as “high”.
“We all want to see children back in schools as an urgent priority. But not if this risks a new COVID-19 spike. The Government must guarantee that public health will not be put at risk as a result of a premature or rushed effort to get children back into classrooms.
“The Government must also find find practical solutions to the logistical problems created by the need for social distancing in schools. That’s why the Liberal Democrats have called on Government to look into creating local spare space registers, to open up community spaces for use by schools.
“Ministers must make clear to parents and teachers exactly what guidance lies behind the decision to reopen schools, and what practical support is in place for schools as they open up to more pupils.”