Luton North MP calls on internet providers to get all kids connected for online learning

Sarah Owen spoke about her concerns for families who cannot afford good internet access as schools shut down once again in the country's third lockdown.

Ms Owen said: “No child in Luton, or anywhere in our country, should be left behind because they can’t access the internet or have the equipment they need.

“I’m an MP because I want every young person to be able to get on, no matter their background or circumstance. We should be doing everything we can to ensure pupils have all the support they need during this pandemic.

“School closures aren’t easy, and it is the most disadvantaged pupils who will likely find the next few weeks the most difficult. I know teachers across the country have been and will continue working day-and-night to help those in their classes as best as humanly possible.

“I hope the internet providers step up in this national effort and ensure that every pupil can carry on learning at home.”

A group of Labour MPs are calling on the bosses of the largest internet firms to help ensure that all children can access the internet at home so that no child is held back over the next few weeks and months.

In June last year, BT announced a six-month scheme to provide internet to disadvantaged pupils who were learning at home and yesterday (Tuesday) Three announced some support would be made available.

MPs have reached out again to BT and the other major broadband firms – TalkTalk, Vodaphone, Sky and Virgin – to ask they commit to assisting any family that needs it to connect to the internet in the event of school closures.