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Written question asked by Lord Pearson of Rannoch (Non-affiliated) on Thursday, 18 May 2023, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Friday, 2 June 2023. It was answered by Baroness Barran (Conservative) on Thursday, 22 June 2023 on behalf of the Department for Education.


Arabic and Religion: Education

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Baroness Barran on 15 May (HL7542), what assessment they have made of any implications for national security arising from the funding received by schools from Qatar Foundation International on the teaching of religious education and Arabic in schools.

Answer

The Department does not receive funding from Qatar Foundation International (QFI) for curriculum programmes that support the teaching of religious education (RE) or Arabic in schools in England. We are aware that QFI partner with primary and secondary schools in the UK, the British Council, and other philanthropic organisations. In their partnership with the British Council, they offer grants to schools to introduce, improve or expand provision for Arabic.

When accepting funds from third party individuals or organisations, we expect schools to follow the guidance of the local authority or the academy trust handbook.

Independent schools, like all private businesses, are required to abide by all relevant legislation.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL7956
Session
2022-23
Related items
Arabic and Religion: Education
Monday, 15 May 2023
Written questions
House of Lords
Arabic and Religion: Education
Thursday, 13 July 2023
Written questions
House of Lords
Subjects
Finance Education Religion Arabic Qatar Foundation International
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk