LIB DEM MP CALLS FOR CLOSER SCRUTINY FOR SCHOOLS FUTURE

4.37.38pm GMT Fri 11th Jan 2008

Commenting on Herefordshire Council's review of the county's schools, Paul Keetch MP is calling for evidence and closer scrutiny of the review that has resulted in the proposals published today.

The MP said, "It is very easy to close schools but much harder to re-open or seek new builds and Herefordshire Council must tread very carefully in their handling of this matter.

"I want a full briefing on the situation and evidence of factors which led to the final proposals.

"I fully understand that a fall in pupil numbers can lead to closure of some schools but this decision should not be taken using that criteria alone. Job losses are likely and transport to school is another area that needs to be looked at closely when the fuller picture is taken into account.

"I shall be insisting that all of this forms part of the process before the final report is submitted."