George Osborne questioned on education in the north of England

• Watch Parliament TV: Education in the north
• Inquiry: Education in the north
• Education Committee

Witnesses

Wednesday 2 May, Committee Room 8, Palace of Westminster

At 10am

• Rt Hon George Osborne, Chair, Northern Powerhouse Partnership
• Lord Jim O'Neill, Vice-Chair, Northern Powerhouse Partnership
• Henri Murison, Director, Northern Powerhouse Partnership

Purpose of the session

The NPP was set up in 2016 to represent the voice of business and civic leaders across the North. It published its third report on Educating the North in February.

Questioning is likely to focus on ways to improve education in the North and its role in raising productivity and prosperity in the region, as well as what can be done to help disadvantaged pupils and address inequalities.

Crucial skills gap is closed

Rt Hon Robert Halfon MP, Chair of the Education Committee, said:

"George Osborne has been the driving force of the Northern Powerhouse and its efforts to boost the local economy by investing in skills and innovation.

It is crucial that the gap in education and skills between the North of England and other parts of England is closed. Where a child happens to live and go to school should not negatively impact on their future; all must get the resources and support they need to thrive in their careers ahead.

The NPP's valuable report on ‘Educating the North' highlighted the importance of high-quality education and skills, focussing on areas such as early years, career pathways, and apprenticeships and college learning.

As a Committee we look forward to questioning George Osborne and Lord O'Neill on their views on how to ensure children and young people in the North have the chance to climb the ladder of opportunity."

Further information

• About Parliament: Select committees
• Visiting Parliament: Watch committees

Image: PA