Reform council's school transport cut call 'Victorian'

Reform Council's School Transport Cut Call 'Victorian'

The education secretary has rejected a Reform council leader's proposal to extend the distance children can be expected to make their own way to school.

George Finch, Reform UK leader of Warwickshire County Council, suggested local authorities be given powers to extend statutory walking distances to help cut down on school transport spend.

“No child should have to trek in the rain for five miles just to get to school,”

said Liberal Democrat MP Manuela Perteghella, describing the idea as “cruel, short-sighted” and dangerous for children. Bridget Phillipson accused Reform of “taking our children back to the Victorian era”.

Finch called on Phillipson to give local councils the power to adapt statutory walking distances for Home to School Transport.

Author's summary: Reform council's proposal sparks controversy.

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Schools Week Schools Week — 2025-10-29

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