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Academies Bill [Lords]

I was quoting earlier from point 20 in the equalities impact assessment. Let me try to make some progress. This set of amendments is extremely important. Allowing outstanding schools to fast-track to becoming academies raises all sorts of questions and concerns right across the Committee. What will it mean for admissions? We are told, ““Trust the funding agreement.”” What will it mean for exclusions? We are told, ““Trust the funding agreement.”” Grammar schools are to become part of the academy world. We are told, ““Don't worry, it won't mean more selection. Don't worry, it won't mean more selective places.”” It is clear from the answers we have been given and the evidence before us that grammar schools becoming academies will lead to more selection. It is clear that, without its being made explicit in the Bill that there is a requirement to abide by the various codes and the legal framework in respect of exclusions and admissions, over the next few years we will see an expansion of selection and of exclusions from the intakes into certain schools—or, more likely, non-admittance—and a more socially exclusive education system. We all want increased attainment and our young people to achieve the very best they can, but we cannot do that by creating what this Bill in effect creates at its heart: a two-tier education system.