I support this Private Members' motion. I think it reflects the will of us as legislators, as citizens and as parents to ensure that the significant investment made in our education and training system is protected so it will continue to play a key part in the personal and professional development of our young people and contribute to economic recovery and job creation in the months and years ahead. However, we must recognise the economic reality arising from decisions of the past, and acknowledge the competing demands for limited resources and the requirement to reduce public sector numbers further. While acknowledging this reality, the Government will seek as far as possible to protect funding for education and training as a priority. I also commend this motion to the House.

See this item in context