Tristram Hunt MP, Labour’s Shadow Education Secretary, responding to NAO findings that Cameron’s flagship Free Schools programme is failing to deliver on places and standards, said:

“This report is further evidence of the inexcusable crisis that David Cameron has created in school places. Providing enough good school places is a basic responsibility for any government. Yet this Tory-led Government is failing to deliver for all children, diverting two-thirds of Free School places away from areas of need.

“We know that standards are suffering as a result. Teacher quality is being damaged. Free Schools have been allowed to take on unqualified teachers on a permanent basis. Ministers are waving through low-standard applications from prospective providers.

“David Cameron’s Free School programme is failing to meet the demand for school places, operating with a complete lack of financial transparency and local accountability. It has allowed unqualified teachers into our schools.

“A future Labour government would prioritise creating school places in areas where there is a shortage, ensure there is a more rigorous local oversight of schools and make sure that all teachers have or are working towards a teaching qualification.”