Vikki Slade

Vikki Slade

Liberal Democrat — Mid Dorset and North Poole

Speaking in the House of Commons on 12 September 2024

Debate

Business of the House

Contribution

The issue of special educational needs funding is well known in the House. Local authorities are still waiting for clarity on an extension to the statutory override that allows them to fund the shortfall from core council budgets, including their reserves. The deficit in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, where many of my constituents’ children go to school, has reached £64 million with reserves at just £65 million. Councils are not permitted to borrow to fund the deficit, and without urgent action they will be unable to set a legally balanced budget in February. Will time be made for the House to discuss special educational needs and disabilities funding and local government finance before well-run councils such as BCP become insolvent and more vulnerable children are failed?

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For Vikki Slade's full parliamentary record including voting history, expenses and all other contributions, see the Vikki Slade report card.