CUTS: Decision is 'a black day' for Rotherham

ROTHERHAM’S trio of Labour MPs have called the axing of BSF “a black day” for education in the borough.

ROTHERHAM’S Labour MPs have called the axing of BSF “a black day” for education in the borough.

John Healey, Denis MacShane and Kevin Barron supported the 15-year massive investment programme while in power.

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This week the Conservative-Lib Dem coalition said it would have been “irresponsible” to continue in light of the public finances left by the last administration.

But Wentworth and Dearne MP Mr Healey said: “It makes little sense to cut these long-term investments in our children and for the future.

“The coalition government are letting down these schools and the next generation of children.

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“They don’t need to make cuts as fast or as deep as this. They have chosen to go further and faster than they need to.”

Rotherham MP Denis MacShane compared the BSF announcement to the Government withdrawing the proposed £80 million loan to Sheffield Forgemasters last month.

“Most Rotherham schools have been completely rebuilt or refurbished under the Labour Government after the years and decades of neglect before 1997,” he added.

“Oakwood and other Rotherham schools were patiently waiting in the queue.

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“Last month it was Sheffield Forgemasters and South Yorkshire engineering, this month Nick Clegg has Rotherham schools in his sights.

“The cuts in school building will damage Rotherham firms and construction workers which were expecting to be employed on the school building programme.”

And Rother Valley MP Kevin Barron was disappointed about what the announcement meant for the schools in his constituency, Aston and Hilltop.

“I have written to the Education Secretary to request an urgent meeting to discuss the rebuilding of Maltby Academy,” he added.

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