Floella Benjamin Joins Sarah Teather In Education Debate

2.00.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Fri 21st Sep 2007

Sarah Teather hosted a debate highlighting cuts at colleges like North West London College in Brent

Local Liberal Democrat MP Sarah Teather was joined by popular broadcaster Floella Benjamin in a conference debate on the future of adult education.

Sarah, who is Liberal Democrat Spokesperson on Further and Higher Education, called the debate after Brent's College of North West London was threatened with huge funding cuts earlier this year.

North West London College is rated 'outstanding' for social and educational inclusion, with ESOL provision (English for Speakers of Other Languages) specifically commended. Yet Level 1 provision, including ESOL places, has been consistently threatened by the Government.

The debate took place at the Liberal Democrat party conference in Brighton, and also featured experts such as Andy Shields from the charity St. Mungo's, which runs a hostel for the homeless in Brent.

Local Liberal Democrat MP for Brent East Sarah Teather said:

"The College of North West London is an excellent learning centre, and we should be proud of the work that they do. Everyone I speak to at the College has an interesting story to tell.

"Sadly, there are many adults in Brent who may have missed out on education at school. They may have been ill, or had caring responsibilities that got in the way of study. It's absolutely vital that we give these people a route back into education.

Floella Benjamin spoke to the Liberal Democrats about the importance of education

"The Labour Government still refuse to accept the devastating impact that cuts to entry level courses could have in Brent. We must therefore continue to take a stand against Labour's threats to staff and courses.

"Floella Benjamin is a hugely popular and inspirational figure. I was delighted that she was able to join us to speak of the vital role adult education plays in getting people's lives back on track."

Related Links:

Floella Benjamin.

North West London College.

Sarah's Parliamentary Motion Backing North West London College.