English pleased with Education portfolio

National MP Bill English says he is pleased to take up the role of Education Spokesman for National.

"I have a long-term interest in education and a real enthusiasm for it.

"We have to stop Trevor Mallard's bullying and bureaucratic approach which will snuff out the spark of innovation in our schools.

"I want to thank my predecessor Nick Smith who has put together a well-researched and far reaching discussion paper on education, and I look forward to taking that around the country," Mr English said.

Dr Smith's Schools of Excellence discussion paper was launched in September.

"I am a strong supporter of standards and excellence. I intend to make sure every child gets the education they deserve, and that means adequate levels of literacy and numeracy," Mr English said.

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