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<p><del class="ministerial">It has not proved possible to respond to this question
in the time available before Prorogation. Ministers will correspond directly with
the Member.</del></p><p><ins class="ministerial">In August 2019, my right hon. Friend,
the Prime Minister announced a £14 billion increase in investment for schools across
England over the next three years. The department welcomes the Children’s Laureate’s
commitment to these issues and publication of her ‘reading rights’, which aligns with
the government’s commitment to raising literacy standards.</ins></p><p> </p><p><ins
class="ministerial">The National Curriculum aims to ensure that all pupils develop
the habit of reading widely and often, becoming independent, fluent and enthusiastic
readers who read for pleasure and for information. Reading aloud is a part of this,
and teachers are encouraged to read poetry, stories and non-fiction to younger pupils,
as well as longer books to older pupils. The National Curriculum also contains guidance
for teachers setting out that pupils should have opportunities to exercise choice
in selecting books.</ins></p><p> </p><p><ins class="ministerial">It is for individual
schools to decide whether to provide and maintain a library service for their pupils.
Many head teachers recognise the important role school libraries play in improving
literacy and encouraging pupils to read for pleasure and ensure that suitable library
facilities are provided.</ins></p>
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