WES Streeting has been drafted by Sir Keir Starmer to promote controversial SEND reforms, amid fears of another rebellion.
Downing Street is “extremely keen” for the Health Secretary – and potential Labour leadership contender – to jointly front a consultation on changes to special needs provisions with Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson.
SEND reforms fall entirely under the Department for Education, but Mr Streeting is set to be drafted in to sell Ms Phillipson’s plans to the public and the party.
The consultation will be announced later this month and comes amid a major funding crisis for special needs in schools.
A Labour source said Mr Streeting is likely to be asked to take time away from his Health portfolio to help mitigate yet another rebellion against Sir Keir.
Ministers are understood to be planning to restrict the distribution of education, health and care plans (EHCP) to kids with only the most complex needs.
A source close to the Education Secretary said: “The schools white paper is a once in a generation opportunity to put millions of children, including those with Send, on the path to more opportunity and better lives.
“Bridget is relishing the chance to unveil her vision for our schools.
“These plans will be quintessentially Labour, creating a new generation of inclusive schools that deliver a brilliant education for every child, not just a lucky few.
“They will be central to this government’s agenda for national renewal.”
Wes Streeting has been given odds of 7/2 to take over from Keir Starmer if there is a contest for a new leader.
