SMALL SCHOOLS IN POWYS

Early day motion 1857, tabled 4 November 2003 by Lembit Öpik (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 19 members.

That this House congratulates the Children, Families and Lifelong Learning Committee of Powys County Council for voting to retain Llangurig, Llandinam, Llansilin, Llangedwyn and Llanrhaeadr schools in Montgomeryshire and Trecastle, Libanus, Glanrhyd, Gurnos, Cwmtwrch and Ynysgedwyn schools in Brecon and Radnorshire; notes that these schools deliver a high quality education and perform a service to the community which goes way beyond the educational function of such an establishment; recognises that the proposed retention of these schools has also to be approved by the Board of Powys County Council on 18th November and Full Council on 27th November; notes that closure of these schools would have damaging ramifications for the economy and the community of the village and locality; recognises the hard work of the parents and staff who have lobbied long and hard against the closures; and calls on the Government to liaise with the Welsh Assembly to ensure that these schools have the resources to continue to perform their vital function at the heart of their rural communities.

Signatures by party: Liberal Democrat 8, Labour 5, Plaid Cymru 3, Conservative 2, UUP 1.