Kemi Badenoch: I am grateful to the hon.

Kemi Badenoch: We are aware of the issues that have arisen in Stoke-on-Trent.

Kemi Badenoch: I thank the hon. Gentleman for that question. There are 50,000 more pupils eligible for free school meals at the moment.

Kemi Badenoch: I met the Children’s Commissioner last week, and discussed this issue among many others. We welcome her report.

Kemi Badenoch: Next year local authorities, including Stoke-on-Trent City Council, will share in an increase of more than £700 million in

Kemi Badenoch: Members on both sides of the House care very much about this area.

Kemi Badenoch: I met the Children’s Commissioner last week, and discussed this issue among many others. We welcome her report.

Kemi Badenoch: An Ofsted inspection of the Aspire Academy in June 2019 rated the academy as inadequate and requiring special measures.

Kemi Badenoch: We are aware that local authorities are facing significant pressures.

Kemi Badenoch: I thank the hon. Lady for that question.