New Secretary of State for Education

5 May 2006

Commenting on the changes made to the ministerial team at the Department for Education and Skills, Steve Sinnott, General Secretary of the National Union of Teachers, Europe’s largest teaching union said:

‘I congratulate Alan Johnson on his appointment.

Alan will be a Secretary of State who brings with him tremendous background knowledge of education and a capacity to deal with tough problems. He understands education and those who work in it and use it.

His task is enormous. He will be expected to steer a highly divisive and unpopular Education Bill through Parliament. The best step that could be taken is for the Government to withdraw the Bill. It should consult all those with a stake in the future of young people in order  that we can achieve a  Bill which backs, supports, and enhances comprehensive education in the 21st century. I wish him luck. I look forward to working with him’.