Head of local government Jon Richards looks back at the latest Westminster U-turn – this time, after a legal challenge to its unfair plans
Jon Richards
Everyone wants schools to reopen fully but they must be safe
New report paints a stark picture of the fear and anxiety
Many are already on the brink financially
Government appears more concerned with headline grabbing
Switch two weeks before Christmas would make all the difference
UNISON survey reveals huge rise in numbers doing higher-grade work as teachers fall ill or fail to get tests
Ministers knew ordinary workers would be affected but they ploughed on regardless
Pay, working hours and the threat from Covid-19 are major concerns
At least £10bn needed to save essential services
Authorities face massive funding gap
Slowing down the reopening will allow proper planning
Reopening must wait until it’s safer
Ministers need to work with unions to create safe schools