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17 June 2026 - The Work of the Department for Education - Oral evidence

Committee Education Committee
Inquiry The Work of the Department for Education

Wednesday 17 June 2026

Start times: 9:30am (private) 9:45am (public)


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MPs question Education Secretary on SEND, early years, forced adoption

The session offers MPs an important opportunity to scrutinise the Department for Education’s approach to major issues against a backdrop of significant reform, as well as financial pressures, across the education system.

Meeting details

At 9:45am: Oral evidence
Work The Work of the Department for Education (Non-inquiry session)
Secretary of State at The Department for Education
Permanent Secretary at Department for Education

MPs can ask any subject within the Department for Education’s remit, but topics likely to be raised include:

  • Reforms to SEND support, including national inclusion standards
  • Teacher recruitment and falling demand for primary school places
  • Curriculum and assessment reforms, including the role of GCSE English in developing a love of reading in children
  • The government’s position on an apology for the state’s role in historical forced adoption practices
  • The Milburn Report warning that one in six young people are not in education, employment or training (NEET)
  • Early years spending pressures and safeguarding concerns
  • Plans to extend the vote to 16-year-olds
  • Progress on a Skills Bill for further and higher education

Location

The Wilson Room, Portcullis House

How to attend