KEIGHLEY MP Robbie Moore has welcomed Government efforts to support pupils with their remote education.

Schools are currently closed to most students as part of the latest national lockdown.

Mr Moore said education had been a national priority throughout the pandemic and he praised the work of teachers and other staff, but he added that the closure of schools had become necessary to help control the spread of the new Covid variant.

He says the Government is providing one million laptops and tablets to schools for distribution to pupils most in need, with Keighley students benefitting from the 1,400-plus given to Bradford.

And over 54,000 4G routers have been delivered to schools and colleges nationally in a bid to ensure every student has internet access. The Government is working with providers to offer free internet access for the students until July.

Mr Moore said: “The decision to close schools and colleges was not taken lightly, but it was necessary if we are to keep the new variant of the virus at bay across Keighley and Ilkley and the rest of the country.

“Whilst nothing can ever replace the benefits of learning in a classroom for our children and young people, we will continue to do everything possible to make sure they have access to high-quality remote provision so they can receive the world-class education that they deserve.”