Former Eastbourne MP condemns ‘utter incompetence’ of A Level results handling

Stephen Lloyd described education Minister Gavin Williamson’s actions as ‘utter incompetence’ in his first political statement since losing the seat to Caroline Ansell in December 2019.

Mr Lloyd said, “I have been pretty quiet publicly in the Herald about this government since the election in December[...]but this is the final straw.

“The utter incompetence of the Secretary of State for Education, Gavin Williamson MP, is beyond even my low expectations. I knew him when I was the MP and wasn’t impressed.

“During this exam grading chaos though his total lack of leadership ability makes him unfit to lead our children’s education.”

Eastbourne student’s results delay ‘nightmare’

He has joined calls for Mr Williamson to resign his position over the situation, or Prime Minister Boris Johnson to sack him.

But Mr Lloyd said, “I won’t hold my breath. I always knew this government would be venal.

“I know Boris Johnson and I know his past record, but [the government’s] ongoing incompetence simply beggars belief.”

This comes after thousands of students had their A Level results downgraded last week by a government algorithm – causing many to lose out on places at their first choice university.

Following an uproar, the Education Secretary has since agreed pupils can be awarded their school or college estimated grade, or the moderated grade from exam regulator Ofqual – whichever is the highest.

Current Eastbourne MP Caroline Ansell, who is a former teacher, said, “The much consulted upon and widely supported Ofqual algorithm was found to be flawed.

“Those who criticise rarely have a solution. In this case, the Government listened and acted promptly and this problem no longer exists.

“In record numbers students in Eastbourne and Willingdon are moving on to their first choice destinations and I congratulate them, their families and their dedicated teachers.

“We are living in exceptional times but every year, tens of thousands of appeals are made, grades rise and fall, and plans change.

“For those students still finalising their next steps, there is advice out there for them and I too stand ready to support.”

How U-turn on A Level results has impacted university applications - and what to do if your grades have gone up

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