Business of the House

Jenny Riddell-Carpenter Excerpts

Thursday 22nd January 2026 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I thank my hon. Friend for raising that issue; he is a doughty campaigner for his constituents. As I have said, Capita has recognised the scale of the issue and is recruiting additional staff to deal with it, but I hear the frustration from Members across the House. Although we can talk about making progress, that is of little comfort to Mrs Costello and others who are still waiting. I will arrange a meeting for my hon. Friend and other Members across the House if they seek one with the relevant Cabinet Office Minister, so they can further make the case.

[Jenny Riddell-Carpenter (Suffolk Coastal) (Lab)]

Earlier this week, students in year 11 at Felixstowe school were told that they would not be able to continue their studies at the school beyond year 11 because it is not continuing with sixth-form provision. As Members can imagine, this has caused huge worry for parents and students at Felixstowe school. I have written to the Secretary of State about this matter and the worries I have about the withdrawal of sixth-form education from our town. Will the Leader of the House help to ensure that I secure the meeting quickly, as time is clearly of the essence?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

May I express my sympathies to concerned parents and students? From time to time, similar issues have arisen in my constituency, and I appreciate the concern and uncertainty that they create. My hon. Friend knows that this Government are committed to opportunity for all, and education, which is of vital importance, is central to that. I will ensure that she gets a meeting with a Minister, so that she can follow up on this issue as a matter of urgency.