Conor Ryan, who was Tony Blair's senior education adviser from 2005-7, says Labour's Shadow Education Secretary Andy Burnham's opposition to free schools is "ridiculous." Writing on his blog, Ryan predicts there
will on be only a small number set up but adds: "Free schools may offer a useful addition to the educational landscape, they may provide a little extra competition (and a few planning headaches for some councils). And they may give their pupils and parents a sense that state education can meet their needs."
He goes on "no Labour government is going to reverse what has already been set up: so our spokespeople should stop pretending otherwise. Instead, let's welcome those free schools."
His comments follow earlier support from Lord Adonis.