The Liberal Democrat motion on funding for Children and Young People was passed at last night’s meeting of full Council.

The motion, proposed by Cllr Ashley Mason, asked Council to officially recognise the abysmal funding situation of schools in York, both historically and under the incoming schools National Funding Formula.

As a result of the successful motion, the Council will now make contact with the Secretary of State to insist she reconsider York’s position.  In the meantime, the Council will do everything it can to support schools during the difficult implantation period of the National funding Formula.

Furthermore, the motion also recognised the outstanding work of the City’s Youth Council and a commitment was given to explore further funding for the Youth Council.

The motion was passed, with amendments, by every City of York Councillor in attendance, apart from Conservative Councillors, who abstained from the vote and refused to support the sentiments of the motion.

Cllr Ashley Mason said:

“I am delighted that our motion received such enormous support last night, both from Councillors and members of the public.  The Council can begin in it’s efforts to lobby central Government and stand up for the City’s schools.

Schools are facing considerable financial challenges and under the new National Funding Formula, York will remain the worst funded local authority area in the Country.  This simply is not acceptable and more funding is needed to provide an inclusive education across the City.

It was also excellent to see the efforts staff and Youth Councillors formally recognised by Council. I very much look forward to working with the Executive in identifying financial opportunities to support the Youth Council further

It was extremely disappointing to see that the Conservative Party refused to vote and support this extremely important motion, but nonetheless, the Liberal Democrats will continue to make the case for York and for the City’s schools.