National standards for literacy on the way

National Party Education spokesman Bill English is delighted his Private Member's Bill introducing national standards for literacy will be debated in Parliament.

"Parents and schools need to know where every child stands relative to national standards and what progress they are making.

"Select Committee hearings on the Education (National Standards of Literacy and Numeracy) Amendment Bill will provide an opportunity for the arguments to be heard. I hope all parties will see the merit of having this debate.

"The bill will also provide a good opportunity for a new National spokesperson on education to continue our campaign for quality and standards in education," says Mr English.