To receive a report on the local implications for Herefordshire of the Government’s latest white paper on Education published in October 2005.

THAT

(a)   the proposals in the White Paper be noted as a significant reference document for the current and future development of both the quality and provision of education in Herefordshire; and

(b)   the Leader be authorised to approach other local authorities to formulate a response on the implications of the Bill for rural authorities.

Attached at Appendix 1 is the Ten Policy Briefing Paper, which provides a succinct and comprehensive summary of the White Paper.  The briefing paper commentary on pages 15-18 describe some of the tensions and contradictions contained in the White Paper.  

At the time of writing this report, the proposals in the White Paper are the subject of considerable debate nationally and it is difficult to predict with any degree of certainty the precise nature of any legislative outcomes.  A Short Guide to the Education and Inspections Bill 2006 is attached at Appendix 2.

Not applicable.