Commenting as the Work and Pensions Select Committee publishes a report from its inquiry into asbestos management which calls for the government to set out a plan and timescale to remove asbestos from all public buildings, Paul Whiteman general secretary of school leaders' union NAHT, said:

“All pupils should have a safe, clean and healthy school environment where they can learn, play and thrive. As should all those who work in schools. With asbestos present in four-fifths of schools that isn’t guaranteed. This move from MPs requiring the government to plan and act to remove asbestos is a step forward but the pace is too slow. We urge the government to invest in safe school buildings as a matter of urgency.”