Comment: I share frustration over strike backed by only a minority

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Most teachers don't want a strike and didn't vote for one.

It was an independent pay body which recommended teachers should get a pay increase of 2.45 per cent for next year. And it would be wrong to back down on this in the face of industrial action. Delivering low inflation, low interest rates and a stable economy is in everyone's interests - including teachers.

I think all teachers should go to work today and most teachers will. But I also know teachers are concerned about pay and workload and I think it's right we have an independent process that keeps pay under review. We will continue to bear down on red tape and help teachers focus on what they do best - teach. That's why we have recruited 100,000 more teaching assistants since 1997.

I am determined to make sure that our extra investment in education is matched by rising standards in all our schools - so that every young person can make the most of their talents and go on to an apprenticeship, to university or get a skilled job.

Every parent wants their child to get the best schooling from the best teachers - and that is what we want too. I'd like to thank the teachers and heads throughout the country who are working today. I believe it's my job to stand up for parents and pupils - and do the very best for all those who are working so hard delivering first-class education for our children.