MP’s anger at council over school proposals

South Dorset MP Jim Knight had asked the authority to review its proposal to charge for school transport to faith schools.

But the council has turned down the schools minister's request.

Mr Knight said: "Many local parents have contacted me with worries and frustrations about the proposals.

"My concern is that the council and its cabinet have shown scant regard for the views of parents and the policy guidance of the government in this particular area.

"The guidance from the Department for Children, Schools and Families on denominational transport says such changes should be phased in, and full consultation take place with those affected.

"That is why I requested a review of this decision."

Dorset County Council currently provides free travel for children aged 11 to 15 who attend voluntary-aided, voluntary-controlled or foundation schools and who live between three and 10 miles away.

But from this September the council wants to charge parents £203 a year, payable in two instalments.

The only exceptions will be families receiving maximum working tax credit or free schools meals.

Mr Knight said: "Dorset County Council cannot presume to know the view of parents, nor is it best placed to deny parents the right to exercise choice and access the range of schools, including the excellent education offer by many faith-based schools.

"I hope the council reconsiders my request."

Dorset County Council leader Angus Campbell said: "Providing free home to school transport is not a statutory requirement and is increasingly perceived in some quarters as providing an extra benefit to a specific group of people.

"Councils across the country including, Devon, Somerset and Hampshire have already introduced similar policies.

"Whatever percentage funding increases we may have had this year, Dorset still remains the lowest funded county council in the country and these charges will give us around £100,000 a year to offset the cost of school buses serving faith schools."