Crossofstgeorge Debate

[Hotspur]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/4796068.stm

SNP 'may vote on education bill'

The education bill has proven controversial
Scottish National Party MPs are warning that they may vote against the
government's controversial English education reforms next week.
Such a step would break the SNP's self-imposed rule of not voting on
English matters in the Commons - and may make the vote even tighter.

Its MPs are seeking clarification on whether the financial
implications of the bill would affect Scotland.

Government sources said there may be an impact on how funding is
worked out.

Labour's proposals to reform English education and establish trust
schools have been hugely controversial.

The government has already made concessions in the face of a huge
Labour rebellion, but next week's vote could still be tight.

Seeking answers

While the legislation does not directly affect Scotland, the SNP
believes there may be financial implications if funding of the English
system changes.

That could have an impact on the Barnett formula, the method by which
the Scottish block grant is calculated.

The SNP is seeking answers from Education Secretary Ruth Kelly.

Government sources pointed out that any change to the method of
funding of public services in England could have an financial impact north
of the border.

They said that was the reason why ministers were opposed to the idea
of banning Scottish MPs from voting on English matters at Westminster.
_________________
Lord Hugh Cecil 1918



"the truth is that colouring federalism with nationalism is like painting a rat red: it kills the animal.

Federalism and Nationalism are contradictory and mutually Fatal".

[Lance Dragon]

I should be annoyed at Alex Salmond's lies in a letter to me about not voting on English only matters, but my thoughts are "good on yer Al"

I think when they vote on this we need to write a million letters in to how Scots nationalists are affecting English lives.

I'm scribing now in preparation.
_________________
RBS - Robbed by Scots
The deadliest enemies of the English are the British
Better a "Sour Little Englander" than a Poisonous Wee J ock.

[Hotspur]

i'm sharpening my typing finger
_________________
Lord Hugh Cecil 1918



"the truth is that colouring federalism with nationalism is like painting a rat red: it kills the animal.

Federalism and Nationalism are contradictory and mutually Fatal".