Behave or leave, MP is ordered over Otley school strike debate

AN MP was sternly rebuked by the Commons Speaker today after trying to start a debate on a controversial move to turn a West Yorkshire school into an academy.

Liberal Democrat Greg Mulholland (Leeds North West) had asked the Commons Leader Sir George Young about the prospect of debating the rules by which locally-maintained schools could switch to academy status.

During his question he was heckled by Labour MPs but instead of ignoring them when he sat down to listen to Sir George’s answer he continued the war of words, jabbing his finger at his accusers.

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At this point the Speaker John Bercow intervened, warning him that if he failed to meet Commons protocol he should leave the chamber.

But Mr Mulholland continued with his exchange and then shook his head at the rebuke.

Facing Mr Mulholland directly, he added: “Order, order. I am not looking for or expecting any response from you and it isn’t for you to sit there shaking your head.

“Order. You’d better watch yourself very carefully. You asked a question of the Leader of the House. The Leader of the House is courteously responding. You will sit quietly and listen to it. And if you find yourself unable to do that, you know what the alternative is.”

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At this point Sir George was able to finish his answer. He said this Government was following the same rules as the last administration when it came to academies. “By and large the progress to academies is something that has been welcomed by local communities,” he added.

Afterwards Mr Mulholland left the chamber but not before speaking briefly to Conservative MP Kris Hopkins (Keighley).

Mr Mulholland raised the issue as teachers as teachers at Prince Henry’s Grammar School in Otley staged a sixth one-day strike today over fears the change to academy status could affect their pay and conditions.

Head teacher has Janet Sheriff said there was “no intention whatsoever” of changing terms of employment for staff.

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The change to an academy would see funding go direct to the school rather than via Leeds City Council.

Prince Henry’s Grammar School was originally set up by King James I in 1607 and is one of the oldest schools in Yorkshire.

Last month, 10 school governors voted for the change with nine against. The unions said two thirds of the teachers were opposed to the move.