Investment in education key, says Henry Vann

7.52.52pm BST (GMT +0100) Fri 31st Jul 2009

Nick Clegg and Henry Vann have called for education to be a priority in a Liberal Democrat government

• Liberal Democrats would get class sizes down says parliamentary campaigner -

Nick Clegg, Liberal Democrat leader, has announced that one of the top priorities for a Liberal Democrat government will be education.

The plans would see an extra £2.5bn being carefully invested in the pupil premium, extended school provision, and smaller class sizes across the country.

This additional funding would be targeted towards those most in need of extra support.

Henry Vann, local campaigner for the Liberal Democrats in Bedford and Kempston welcomed the proposals, having highlighted the challenges of providing extended schooling within the county.

Henry said: "Whilst some cuts may be needed, they should not affect front line, basic services which are vital for out future.

"The pupil premium would bring the education funding for the least well off up to the level seen in the private sector, and would help to ensure a good education for children across Bedford and Kempston.

"Smaller class sizes are a significant factor in improving attainment.

"The Liberal Democrats have set out proposals to put £2.5bn into the education system to each the most disadvantaged children, provide extra tuition and extended schooling, and get class sizes down."

Related Links:

Nick Clegg's 'Fresh Start for Britain'.

Earlier in the year (February 26), Henry highlighted the problems facing Bedford in providing extended school provision.