A PLAN to improve the self-government of schools has been welcomed by Ribble Valley MP Nigel Evans.

Secretary of State for Education, Gillian Shephard has outline the Government's plan in a statement in the House of Commons.

Mr Evans said: "In total, local education authorities will have at least £600m extra which they will have to pass on to schools.

"We are looking to extend the local management of LEA schools, so that they can control 95 per cent of their own budgets.

"This means that schools like Ribblesdale in Clitheroe, and Longridge High School, will have an extra £90 per pupil to spend however they wish.

"With the unquestionable success of grant-maintained schools, these are to be allowed far more scope for expansion.

"Every type of school is going to benefit."

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