People Must be Given Full Picture on Schools Restructuring Plans, say Lib Dems

5.03.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 29th Apr 2009

The Liberal Democrats have demanded that the consultation on plans to move to a two tier schools system in Bedford Borough must be honest and transparent

Responding to the Mayor's decision to authorise the launch of a consultation next month on a proposal to move to a two tier schools system in Bedford Borough, the Liberal Democrats have demanded that people are able to make up their minds on the basis of the 'whole picture.'

Commenting, Bedford Borough Liberal Democrat Group Spokesperson for Education Cllr Michael Headley said: "What we have from the Mayor is a decision that there will be a consultation on a plan to restructure the local schools system - but we still do not have the details of the plan.'

"Students, parents, staff, schools and the wider community will be very anxious to know exactly what will be proposed for individual schools. All that we do know at this stage is that there will be a proposal for a fundamental change to the local schools system, with far-reaching consequences for local children and for our communities. Under these circumstances it is essential that all details of any proposals are presented honestly and transparently, including all sides of the argument, with both the full benefits and the full costs made clear. People must be able to make up their minds on this crucial issue on the basis of the whole picture. I would encourage everyone to make sure they have their say."