Welsh Conservatives today confronted the Assembly Government over changes to post-16 education in Wales.
Speaking in the Assembly Chamber, Leader of the Opposition Nick Bourne AM challenged the First Minister over the Government’s position on the consultation processes affecting changes in further education.
Commenting on the exchange, Mr Bourne said:
“The First Minister did agree that any proposed change in the workings of further education should be subject to a full consultation.
“However, he did not address what happens if the outcomes of such consultation are not taken into account, as we have seen most recently in Merthyr Tydfil where the local education authority has decided to go ahead with proposals despite 91% of consultation responders being against the plans.
“While I agree that one size does not fit all when it comes to further education, we must ensure that the voices of local people and key stakeholders are listened to when such significant changes are being proposed.
“I will continue to seek reassurances from the First Minister and the Assembly Government over future consultation processes.
“We must ensure that any changes to post-16 education have the best interests of students and their communities at heart.”
