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Comment: I share frustration over strike backed by only a minority
Ed Balls, Children, Schools and Families Secretary24.04.08
I know parents are disappointed and frustrated by the strike action today - and so am I.
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.
Reader views (2)
And it was the same 'independent' pay body who was rebuffed by the government when it asked to activate the trigger for re-negotiation if inflation exceeded 3.25%. Teachers have already had real term pay cuts for the last three years. Why should we accept them for a further 3 years? No serious economist supports the government's inflation argument. Yes, this government raised teachers' pay from its ridiculously low levels - but what on earth was the point if they are going to erode it now? Before Labour got into power there were huge recruitment problems but even now 50% of newly qualified teachers leave within 3 years. These are people who actually try to do the job but end up leaving to find work 'in the real world'... If this country wants stability in education it has to pay teachers a living wage and stem the constant tide of initiatives.
- K Tunks, London
Look at the facts Mr. Balls. Stop using terminology and platitudes. A young teacher cannot pay back the thousands of pounds of student loans and live in London. It does not work. When there are no teachers in 5 yeas time then you will have a problem. Think about the future.
- Leo Bird, London
