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Urgent question on Gove plan to scrap GCSEs: Politics live blog Urgent question on Gove plan to scrap GCSEs: Politics live blog
(about 1 hour later)
12.31pm: Sky's Sophy Ridge has posted this on Twitter.
Senior LibDem:"Nick Clegg thinks we should be raising expectation for all children not returning to a two tier system that let down so many"
— Sophy Ridge (@SophyRidgeSky) June 21, 2012
11.49am: Here is a summary of the key points on Michael Gove's statement.
• Gove said that he would soon be publishing a consultation paper on reforming the examination system in England. He refused to comment on any of the details in the story about the government's plans in the Daily Mail, which says pupils will start studying for the new O-level-style qualifications from September 2014. But he said the government would proceed carefully.

These are inevitably challenging ambitions which will require careful implementation. That is why we wish the conversation about how we raise standards to be broad and inclusive.
• He claimed the current examination system was flawed.

Heads have told us that the current league table system incentivises weak schools to push students towards soft subjects and easier exams. Parents and students have told us that there are weaknesses with current GCSEs, which privilege bite-sized learning over deep understanding, gobbets of knowledge over real learning.
• He said that having competition in the setting of exams had not worked.
We want to tackle the culture of competitive dumbing-down, by making sure that exam boards cannot compete with each other on the basis of how easy their exams are.
• He said that he wanted pupils to be able to take exams that were more rigorous than GCSEs.

We would like to see every student in this country able to take world class qualifications, like the rigorous and respected exams which are taken, for example, by Singapore's students.
• He said that under Labour, although exam results had improved, England had fallen behind in international league tables.
While there were undoubtedly improvements in our schools and by our teachers over the course of the last 20 years, those improvements were not sufficient to ensure that we kept pace with other jurisdictions ...
The sad truth is that if we look at the objective measure of how we did over the last 10 or 15 years, in reading our score in international league tables fell from 523 to 494; in maths from 529 to 492; and in science from 528 to 514. Every objective academic study of what has happened in our education system has drawn attention to the weakness of our qualifications.
• He rejected claims that his plans would create a two tier education system. That was because a two-tier system already existed, he said.
The sad truth is that we already have a two-tier system in education in this country. Some of our most impressive schools have already left the GCSE behind and have opted for the IGCSE or other more rigorous examinations. And it is also the case, sadly, that 40% of children do not include five good GCSEs including English and Maths.
[Kevin Brennan, the shadow education minister] said that under the proposals that are being reported that 25% of children would be left behind. The sad truth is that at least 40% of children have been left behind under the current system that we have.


• He rejected the claim made by Chris Cook, the FT's education correspondent, that his plans would lead to the creation of a new qualification for poor children. Gove said he had read the blog Cook posted this morning.
I think that it suffers from one thing. It itself is a prisoner of the culture of low aspiration that we have tackled.
• He said England's education system was "one of the most inequitable, one of the most stratified and segregated" in the world.
• He rejected claims that he wanted to take England back to the 1950s.
What we want to do is not to look backwards, but outwards. We want to ask ourselves why is it that there are other countries that have stronger exam systems and that also make opportunity more equal. Why is it the case that in countries like Singapore and Hong Kong, in Canada, Australia and New Zealand that they both manage to have a higher level of absolute attainment and a more equal society and a more equal education system. That is what we want to achieve.
• He said he was a "Blairite" in terms of political philosophy. He believed in what worked, he explained.
11.34am: So, what have we learnt from Gove's response to the urgent question about his plan to scrap GCSEs?11.34am: So, what have we learnt from Gove's response to the urgent question about his plan to scrap GCSEs?
When ministers have to answer questions about leaked stories about their intentions, they can do one of two things: play it all down, and suggest the newspaper has exaggerated a proposal that hasn't yet got off the drawing board; or defend it robustly, as if it is already policy. Gove adopted the second tactic. Earlier, having seen the way large chunks of the education establishment (include HMC, which represents independent schools), I thought Gove might be tempted to have second thoughts. I was wrong.When ministers have to answer questions about leaked stories about their intentions, they can do one of two things: play it all down, and suggest the newspaper has exaggerated a proposal that hasn't yet got off the drawing board; or defend it robustly, as if it is already policy. Gove adopted the second tactic. Earlier, having seen the way large chunks of the education establishment (include HMC, which represents independent schools), I thought Gove might be tempted to have second thoughts. I was wrong.
That said, Gove said virtually nothing about what his plans actually. You will learn more reading the Daily Mail. All he actually told MPs was that he wanted to raise standards and that he would be publishing a consultation paper shortly.That said, Gove said virtually nothing about what his plans actually. You will learn more reading the Daily Mail. All he actually told MPs was that he wanted to raise standards and that he would be publishing a consultation paper shortly.
So we did not get any detail at all? But we got some indication as to his direction of travel. I'll post a proper summary shortly.So we did not get any detail at all? But we got some indication as to his direction of travel. I'll post a proper summary shortly.
11.30am: The Gove statement is over.11.30am: The Gove statement is over.
11.29am: Labour's Diana Johnson asks Gove to look at Finland, which leads tables of education standards. 11.29am: Labour's Diana Johnson asks Gove to look at Finland, which leads tables of education standards.
Gove says he has looked at Finland. They attract and retain the very best teachers, he says.Gove says he has looked at Finland. They attract and retain the very best teachers, he says.
11.28am: Labour's Alison Seabeck asks Gove if he thinks that people who can't achieve will go to the wall. 11.28am: Labour's Alison Seabeck asks Gove if he thinks that people who can't achieve will go to the wall.
Gove says competition can raise standards. But poorly designed competition can lead to race to the bottom. Gove says competition can raise standards. But poorly designed competition can lead to a race to the bottom.
11.27am: Tessa Munt, a Lib Dem MP, says having a single examining board would make things easier for children like those from service families who move around. 11.27am: Tessa Munt, a Lib Dem MP, says having a single examining board would make things easier for children like those from service families who move around.
Gove says this is a good point.Gove says this is a good point.
11.26am: Labour's Richard Burden asks if Gove is going to re-introduce CSEs. Won't that stigmatise children? 11.26am: Labour's Richard Burden asks if Gove is going to re-introduce CSEs. Won't that stigmatise children?
Gove says this is a fair point. He is not saying more now because the Department of Education is still considering this. There should be a collective national conversation, he says. He wants to avoid dumbing down, and learn from the best examples in the world.Gove says this is a fair point. He is not saying more now because the Department of Education is still considering this. There should be a collective national conversation, he says. He wants to avoid dumbing down, and learn from the best examples in the world.
11.24am: Labour's Angela Smith says Gove's plan could take England back to the 1950s. 11.24am: Labour's Angela Smith says Gove's plan could take England back to the 1950s.
Gove says that's wrong. Countries like Singapore, Hong Kong and Australia have higher standards and more social aspiration, he says.Gove says that's wrong. Countries like Singapore, Hong Kong and Australia have higher standards and more social aspiration, he says.
11.23am: Gove says he wants children to receive a 21st century education. That means "additional rigour". 11.23am: Gove says he wants children to receive a 21st-century education. That means "additional rigour".
11.22am: Labour's David Wright says the introduction of GCSEs was a "progressive, Thatcherite" policy. Can Gove ensure that his plans will not result in pupils being left behind. 11.22am: Labour's David Wright says the introduction of GCSEs was a "progressive, Thatcherite" policy. Can Gove ensure that his plans will not result in pupils being left behind?
Gove says in ideological matters he is a Blairite. He believes in what works.Gove says in ideological matters he is a Blairite. He believes in what works.
11.21am: Amber Rudd, a Conservative, asks Gove to ensure that he works with the Russell Group of universities. 11.21am: Amber Rudd, a Conservative, asks Gove to ensure that he works with the Russell Group of universities.
Gove agrees.Gove agrees.
11.19am: Philip Davies says the introduction of GCSEs led to standards being watered down. Now having 10 GCSEs can be meaningless. 11.19am: Philip Davies says the introduction of GCSEs led to standards being watered down. Now having 10 GCSEs can be meaningless.
Gove says employers have a "lack of confidence" in the qualifications.Gove says employers have a "lack of confidence" in the qualifications.
Pupils are being let down as a result, he says. He thinks teaching is as good as ever. And pupils are working harder than they have worked before. But the qualifications need to be changed.Pupils are being let down as a result, he says. He thinks teaching is as good as ever. And pupils are working harder than they have worked before. But the qualifications need to be changed.
11.19am: Labour's Julie Hilling says CSEs had little value. How can Gove be sure they will have value in the future? 11.19am: Labour's Julie Hilling says CSEs had little value. How can Gove be sure they will have value in the future?
Gove says employers do not have faith in D and E passes at GCSE.Gove says employers do not have faith in D and E passes at GCSE.
11.17am: Peter Lilley, a Conservative, says the British education system has failed to produce enough people with technical qualifications. Will Gove's reforms tackle that? 11.17am: Peter Lilley, a Conservative, says the British education system has failed to produce enough people with technical qualifications. Will Gove's reforms tackle that?
Gove says he agrees. Technical education has been weak since 1851. (What happened then?)Gove says he agrees. Technical education has been weak since 1851. (What happened then?)
11.15am: Labour's Pat McFadden asks Gove about the Chris Cook analysis in the FT. (See 9.54am.) 11.15am: Labour's Pat McFadden asks Gove about the Chris Cook analysis in the FT. (See 9.54am.)
Gove says the government needs to tackle the culture of low aspiration. Any reform of the examination system would need to ensure that it did not place a cap on aspiration.Gove says the government needs to tackle the culture of low aspiration. Any reform of the examination system would need to ensure that it did not place a cap on aspiration.
He says he has read the Cook piece. He thinks Cook is a prisoner of low aspiration.He says he has read the Cook piece. He thinks Cook is a prisoner of low aspiration.
11.14am: Dan Rogerson, a Lib Dem MP, says he is "very concerned" that a two-tier system would stop less-able pupils achieving above a certain level. 11.14am: Dan Rogerson, a Lib Dem MP, says he is "very concerned" that a two-tier system would stop less-able pupils achieving above a certain level.
Gove says there should be no cap on aspiration. Pupils could take the harder exams at a later stage, he says.Gove says there should be no cap on aspiration. Pupils could take the harder exams at a later stage, he says.
11.14am: Labour's Frank Field says Gove should focus on the foundation years. Gove says the government is doing this already. 11.14am: Labour's Frank Field says Gove should focus on the foundation years. Gove says the government is doing this already.
11.12am: Elizabeth Truss, a Conservative, welcomes the idea of having a single examining board. There has been a "race to the bottom", she says. 11.12am: Elizabeth Truss, a Conservative, welcomes the idea of having a single examining board. There has been a "race to the bottom", she says.
Gove says Conor Ryan, a former Labour education adviser, said this morning that having a single examinations board was a good idea.Gove says Conor Ryan, a former Labour education adviser, said this morning that having a single examinations board was a good idea.
11.12am: Labour's David Blunkett asks why Margaret Thatcher scrapped O-levels. 11.12am: Labour's David Blunkett asks why Margaret Thatcher scrapped O-levels.
Gove says "wrong turnings" were taken under Labour. One involved "a race to the bottom".Gove says "wrong turnings" were taken under Labour. One involved "a race to the bottom".
11.11am: Graham Stuart, the Conservative chairman of the education committee, says he welcomes rigour. But how will these plans improve the outcomes for the poorest children. 11.11am: Graham Stuart, the Conservative chairman of the education committee, says he welcomes rigour. But how will these plans improve the outcomes for the poorest children?
Gove says this is an important point. England's system is one of the most inequitable in the world. Gove says he wants to raise expectations.Gove says this is an important point. England's system is one of the most inequitable in the world. Gove says he wants to raise expectations.
11.08am: Gove is responding.11.08am: Gove is responding.
Brennan said the plan would create a two-tier system. But we already have a two-tier system. At least 40% of children are already left behind. There is no excuse not to act.Brennan said the plan would create a two-tier system. But we already have a two-tier system. At least 40% of children are already left behind. There is no excuse not to act.
This is not an attempt to move backwards, he says.This is not an attempt to move backwards, he says.
It is an attempt to ensure England keeps up with the best in the world.It is an attempt to ensure England keeps up with the best in the world.
The "sad truth" is that the objective measures of performance shows England falling down international league tables in reading, maths and science.The "sad truth" is that the objective measures of performance shows England falling down international league tables in reading, maths and science.
The next generation deserve a world class education, he says. The next generation deserve a world-class education, he says.
11.04am: Labour's Kevin Brennan says Stephen Twigg, the shadow education secretary, says he is not here because he is involved in an important meeting about the murder of a constituent. 11.04am: Labour's Kevin Brennan says Stephen Twigg, the shadow education secretary, says he is not here because he is involved in an important meeting about the murder of a constituent.
Brennan says the Gove plan would take pupils "back to the future".Brennan says the Gove plan would take pupils "back to the future".
Labour wants higher literacy and numeracy standards. But the key to that is to lift teaching standards. At best, the Gove plan would be a "distraction". Only 30% of pupils got a good GCSE in 1997. In 2010 it was more than half.Labour wants higher literacy and numeracy standards. But the key to that is to lift teaching standards. At best, the Gove plan would be a "distraction". Only 30% of pupils got a good GCSE in 1997. In 2010 it was more than half.
A return to the CSE would involve writing off children, he says.A return to the CSE would involve writing off children, he says.
He suggests this is a "softening up exercise to disguise a fall in attainment".He suggests this is a "softening up exercise to disguise a fall in attainment".
What is the evidence that this will actually work?What is the evidence that this will actually work?
11.00am: Michael Gove is responding to the statement now. 11.00am: Michael Gove is responding to the statement now.
He says the coaliton wants to raise standards in schools.He says the coaliton wants to raise standards in schools.
It has already taken steps to make the primary curriculum more rigorous.It has already taken steps to make the primary curriculum more rigorous.
Draft programmes for study are out now, he says.Draft programmes for study are out now, he says.
The government inherited a situation where too many primary school pupils left primary school unable to read and write properly. That was a crime against social mobility.The government inherited a situation where too many primary school pupils left primary school unable to read and write properly. That was a crime against social mobility.
At secondary level the government has also made teaching more rigorous. At secondary level, the government has also made teaching more rigorous.
But the government has been told that it needs to go futher. Falling standards in schools are not a laughing matter.But the government has been told that it needs to go futher. Falling standards in schools are not a laughing matter.
The current system encourages pupils to take easy exams.The current system encourages pupils to take easy exams.
Academics say improvement in exam results have not been matched by improvements in understanding.Academics say improvement in exam results have not been matched by improvements in understanding.
The government has been looking at this and will publish a consultation paper shortly. It wants pupils to be able to take world-class exams. Singapore is a model.The government has been looking at this and will publish a consultation paper shortly. It wants pupils to be able to take world-class exams. Singapore is a model.
These plans will require careful implementaion.These plans will require careful implementaion.
Gove says he wants a broad conversation. But he wants a clear outcome: a system where children are required to do more.Gove says he wants a broad conversation. But he wants a clear outcome: a system where children are required to do more.
10.55am: The urgent question in the Commons on Michael Gove's plan to scrap GCSEs is starting in five minutes. I'll be covering it in detail.10.55am: The urgent question in the Commons on Michael Gove's plan to scrap GCSEs is starting in five minutes. I'll be covering it in detail.
10.51am: You can read all today's Guardian politics stories here. And all the politics stories filed yesterday, including some in today's paper, are here.10.51am: You can read all today's Guardian politics stories here. And all the politics stories filed yesterday, including some in today's paper, are here.
• Peter Oborne in the Daily Telegraph says David Cameron should move George Osborne and make him Conservative chairman.• Peter Oborne in the Daily Telegraph says David Cameron should move George Osborne and make him Conservative chairman.
Mr Osborne is a talented courtier and has made himself personally indispensable to every Conservative leader since John Major. This makes him an interesting and instructively paradoxical politician. Embedded in the Westminster village since leaving university, the Chancellor has an unusually sophisticated understanding of the art of politics for a man who is only 41 years old, matched by jaw-dropping naivety about everything else.Mr Osborne is a talented courtier and has made himself personally indispensable to every Conservative leader since John Major. This makes him an interesting and instructively paradoxical politician. Embedded in the Westminster village since leaving university, the Chancellor has an unusually sophisticated understanding of the art of politics for a man who is only 41 years old, matched by jaw-dropping naivety about everything else.
He carries out two extraordinarily important jobs. He is at the same time the real Conservative Party chairman and the Chancellor. Arguably, he carries out three roles, because Mr Osborne is also the Prime Minister's primary confidante and adviser ...He carries out two extraordinarily important jobs. He is at the same time the real Conservative Party chairman and the Chancellor. Arguably, he carries out three roles, because Mr Osborne is also the Prime Minister's primary confidante and adviser ...
Probably the best solution would be to make an honest man of the Chancellor, and send him to Central Office with his ally Stephen Gilbert with a brief to win the next election. Philip Hammond in that case would make a natural successor, and probably an improvement. What is beyond doubt is that Mr Osborne must be forced to make a choice.Probably the best solution would be to make an honest man of the Chancellor, and send him to Central Office with his ally Stephen Gilbert with a brief to win the next election. Philip Hammond in that case would make a natural successor, and probably an improvement. What is beyond doubt is that Mr Osborne must be forced to make a choice.
Tony Blair regrets bitterly to this day that he never shifted Gordon Brown out of the Treasury. David Cameron now faces a comparable decision. It remains to be seen whether he has the wisdom, the insight or the stomach to make the right decision.Tony Blair regrets bitterly to this day that he never shifted Gordon Brown out of the Treasury. David Cameron now faces a comparable decision. It remains to be seen whether he has the wisdom, the insight or the stomach to make the right decision.
• Yvette Cooper in the Times (paywall) says Labour made mistakes on immigration.• Yvette Cooper in the Times (paywall) says Labour made mistakes on immigration.
This isn't the easiest subject for the Labour Party. In government we didn't do enough to address people's concerns on immigration. By the election, we had lost the argument — people felt that the system was unfair and politicians weren't listening.We need to change.This isn't the easiest subject for the Labour Party. In government we didn't do enough to address people's concerns on immigration. By the election, we had lost the argument — people felt that the system was unfair and politicians weren't listening.We need to change.
Migration policy matters immensely to the public and to our economy. Low public trust undermines cohesion and democracy. All political parties need to work harder to get it right, and this week Ed Miliband will set out Labour's new approach.Migration policy matters immensely to the public and to our economy. Low public trust undermines cohesion and democracy. All political parties need to work harder to get it right, and this week Ed Miliband will set out Labour's new approach.
Rapidly rising global travel and trade increased migration into the world's major economies by around 70 per cent in a decade. That demands stronger controls to maintain confidence and keep the system fair, alongside wider action on the causes and consequences of immigration. For example, we should have brought the points-based system in earlier to restrict low-skilled migration. And we should have adopted transitional controls for Eastern Europe.Rapidly rising global travel and trade increased migration into the world's major economies by around 70 per cent in a decade. That demands stronger controls to maintain confidence and keep the system fair, alongside wider action on the causes and consequences of immigration. For example, we should have brought the points-based system in earlier to restrict low-skilled migration. And we should have adopted transitional controls for Eastern Europe.
Immigration brings pressures and anxieties as well as important economic and cultural benefits. Yet Labour wasn't discussing the impact people felt in their lives. Nor did we look at the unequal consequences — who benefited and who lost out. We've heard that message loud and clear, and Labour needs to change as a result.Immigration brings pressures and anxieties as well as important economic and cultural benefits. Yet Labour wasn't discussing the impact people felt in their lives. Nor did we look at the unequal consequences — who benefited and who lost out. We've heard that message loud and clear, and Labour needs to change as a result.
• Melanie Newman and Oliver Wright in the Independent says some bishops are claiming up to £27,000 a year to attend the House of Lords, on top of their annual stipends, while others are claiming nothing.• Melanie Newman and Oliver Wright in the Independent says some bishops are claiming up to £27,000 a year to attend the House of Lords, on top of their annual stipends, while others are claiming nothing.
Bishops are claiming up to £27,000 a year in fixed-rate allowances to attend sessions of the House of Lords on top of their travel costs. The Bureau of Investigative Journalism and The Independent has found that some bishops are claiming up to the maximum fixed allowance for attending sessions in the second chamber while having full-time jobs in their dioceses. Others attend sessions in the House without making any claim on the public purse.Bishops are claiming up to £27,000 a year in fixed-rate allowances to attend sessions of the House of Lords on top of their travel costs. The Bureau of Investigative Journalism and The Independent has found that some bishops are claiming up to the maximum fixed allowance for attending sessions in the second chamber while having full-time jobs in their dioceses. Others attend sessions in the House without making any claim on the public purse.
10.20am: Here's some more reaction to Michael Gove's plan to scrap GCSEs.10.20am: Here's some more reaction to Michael Gove's plan to scrap GCSEs.
From Chris Keates, general secretary of the NASUWT teaching unionFrom Chris Keates, general secretary of the NASUWT teaching union
This appears to be yet another example of the secretary of state's ambition to create a two-tier education system. Thousands of young people will be taking their GCSEs today and, at a time when they need a confidence boost, they are being told by the secretary of state that the examinations they are taking are worthless.This appears to be yet another example of the secretary of state's ambition to create a two-tier education system. Thousands of young people will be taking their GCSEs today and, at a time when they need a confidence boost, they are being told by the secretary of state that the examinations they are taking are worthless.
The timing for the proposed changes, 2014, the eve of a general election, is interesting. Could it be that the secretary of state is not confident that his education reforms will raise standards and is, therefore, is seeking to cover his tracks by removing anything that can provide a year-on-year comparator?The timing for the proposed changes, 2014, the eve of a general election, is interesting. Could it be that the secretary of state is not confident that his education reforms will raise standards and is, therefore, is seeking to cover his tracks by removing anything that can provide a year-on-year comparator?
There is no evidence that the current system is broken, that examinations are getting easier or that our qualifications are trailing behind the best in the world.There is no evidence that the current system is broken, that examinations are getting easier or that our qualifications are trailing behind the best in the world.
Michael Gove's arrogance is breathtaking. Not only is he upsetting thousands of young people, parents and teachers but he is also consigning Margaret Thatcher's historic education reforms to the dustbin of history.Michael Gove's arrogance is breathtaking. Not only is he upsetting thousands of young people, parents and teachers but he is also consigning Margaret Thatcher's historic education reforms to the dustbin of history.
From Brian Lightman, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL)From Brian Lightman, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL)
O-levels were an examination that existed for a small proportion of the population, that was part of the preparation for university. It was an academic qualification, and at the time when O-levels existed vast numbers of young people left either with no qualifications or ones that employers regarded as inferior.O-levels were an examination that existed for a small proportion of the population, that was part of the preparation for university. It was an academic qualification, and at the time when O-levels existed vast numbers of young people left either with no qualifications or ones that employers regarded as inferior.
The last thing we want to do, when we are ambitious for our education service, is to create a two-tier system. It does risk labelling teenagers as failures.The last thing we want to do, when we are ambitious for our education service, is to create a two-tier system. It does risk labelling teenagers as failures.
In recent years we have done a lot to motivate children, to improve attendance, reduced disengagement and truancy, and this is key to the very real improvements that have taken place in schools.In recent years we have done a lot to motivate children, to improve attendance, reduced disengagement and truancy, and this is key to the very real improvements that have taken place in schools.
[The plans are] a massive risk to the well-being of students.[The plans are] a massive risk to the well-being of students.

From Russell Hobby, general secretary of the National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT).
From Russell Hobby, general secretary of the National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT).
The return to a two-tier system, CSEs and O-levels, implicitly labels some children as less capable ... The idea this once worked is a myth.The return to a two-tier system, CSEs and O-levels, implicitly labels some children as less capable ... The idea this once worked is a myth.
From the Times's Greg HurstFrom the Times's Greg Hurst
Blimey HMC comment: 'Knee-jerk return to nostalgic golden age of O levels run by a state monopoly examination board naïve, will suit nobody'Blimey HMC comment: 'Knee-jerk return to nostalgic golden age of O levels run by a state monopoly examination board naïve, will suit nobody'
— Greg Hurst (@GregHurstTimes) June 21, 2012— Greg Hurst (@GregHurstTimes) June 21, 2012
HMC is the Headmasters' and Headmistresses' Conference, which represents indendent schools.HMC is the Headmasters' and Headmistresses' Conference, which represents indendent schools.
10.16am: Cabinet ministers are not planning to release details of their tax affairs any time soon, according to the Press Association. They've just filed this.10.16am: Cabinet ministers are not planning to release details of their tax affairs any time soon, according to the Press Association. They've just filed this.

David Cameron and senior ministers are not planning to disclose their tax returns in the "very near future", Downing Street indicated today.
The prime minister said in April that he expected information about his finances to become public, and was relaxed about the prospect.
The comment came amid controversy over the decision to cut the 50p top tax rate, and after London mayoral candidates released their records.
But a Number 10 aide said this morning that the proposal is still being "looked into".
Ministers are "not closed to the idea", but it is "not a very near-future thing", the aide added.
David Cameron and senior ministers are not planning to disclose their tax returns in the "very near future", Downing Street indicated today.
The prime minister said in April that he expected information about his finances to become public, and was relaxed about the prospect.
The comment came amid controversy over the decision to cut the 50p top tax rate, and after London mayoral candidates released their records.
But a Number 10 aide said this morning that the proposal is still being "looked into".
Ministers are "not closed to the idea", but it is "not a very near-future thing", the aide added.
10.10am: The BBC's Ross Hawkins has posted this on Twitter.10.10am: The BBC's Ross Hawkins has posted this on Twitter.
There will be an urgent question on O-Levels 1100 in Commons from Shadow Education Minister Kevin Brennan.There will be an urgent question on O-Levels 1100 in Commons from Shadow Education Minister Kevin Brennan.
— Ross Hawkins (@rosschawkins) June 21, 2012— Ross Hawkins (@rosschawkins) June 21, 2012
9.54am: The Financial Times's Chris Cook has posted an excellent analysis of Michael Gove's plan to scrap GSCEs on an FT blog. Here's an extract.9.54am: The Financial Times's Chris Cook has posted an excellent analysis of Michael Gove's plan to scrap GSCEs on an FT blog. Here's an extract.
The most significant issues around this idea are related to social mobility: the CSE [the easier alternative to the new O-level proposed by Gove] will tend to be an exam for poorer children. Consider who would take the CSE if schools could select the quarter of pupils with the lowest average grades with perfect foresight ...The most significant issues around this idea are related to social mobility: the CSE [the easier alternative to the new O-level proposed by Gove] will tend to be an exam for poorer children. Consider who would take the CSE if schools could select the quarter of pupils with the lowest average grades with perfect foresight ...
This matters: one would expect it to lower aspirations among children put onto the CSE track – which would presumably happen at the age of 14. If a child gets moved onto the scheme who otherwise would be aiming for a C at GCSE, they may just stop trying.This matters: one would expect it to lower aspirations among children put onto the CSE track – which would presumably happen at the age of 14. If a child gets moved onto the scheme who otherwise would be aiming for a C at GCSE, they may just stop trying.
This could happen, to an extent, when pupils only sit the so-called "foundation papers" for GCSEs now. But children taking such papers can still get a C at GCSE, and they do not have a qualification on their CV which suggests to employers that teachers thought they were low-ability.This could happen, to an extent, when pupils only sit the so-called "foundation papers" for GCSEs now. But children taking such papers can still get a C at GCSE, and they do not have a qualification on their CV which suggests to employers that teachers thought they were low-ability.
9.25am: The other big story around today, of course, is Michael Gove's plan to scrap GCSEs. It's a Daily Mail exclusive splash. Our version of it is here.9.25am: The other big story around today, of course, is Michael Gove's plan to scrap GCSEs. It's a Daily Mail exclusive splash. Our version of it is here.
Here's some reaction.Here's some reaction.
From Stephen Twigg, the shadow education secretaryFrom Stephen Twigg, the shadow education secretary
Michael Gove must explain his changes to parents and pupils. Will going back to O-levels for some and CSEs for the rest really improve standards for all?Michael Gove must explain his changes to parents and pupils. Will going back to O-levels for some and CSEs for the rest really improve standards for all?
Labour wants to see a robust, rigorous and broad curriculum and exam system that is trusted by parents, pupils and employers. We will set a series of tests to measure these changes.Labour wants to see a robust, rigorous and broad curriculum and exam system that is trusted by parents, pupils and employers. We will set a series of tests to measure these changes.
To succeed in the modern world, young people need a broad education, not a narrow one. Will pupils doing these new exams get access to creative or innovative learning that will create the jobs of the future?To succeed in the modern world, young people need a broad education, not a narrow one. Will pupils doing these new exams get access to creative or innovative learning that will create the jobs of the future?
Will this divide children at fourteen into winners and losers?Will this divide children at fourteen into winners and losers?
With no secondary national curriculum how will he ensure a rigorous approach to learning in all schools?With no secondary national curriculum how will he ensure a rigorous approach to learning in all schools?
When the Tories abolished O-levels and introduced GCSEs in the 1980s they said standards would rise. Now they say they've fallen.When the Tories abolished O-levels and introduced GCSEs in the 1980s they said standards would rise. Now they say they've fallen.
If there is to be a major overhaul parents will want reassurance that the new system will enable all children to progress and reach their full potential.If there is to be a major overhaul parents will want reassurance that the new system will enable all children to progress and reach their full potential.
From Lord Baker, the former Conservative education secretary who introduced the GCSEFrom Lord Baker, the former Conservative education secretary who introduced the GCSE
What is important is to ensure that the other subjects that are taken [ie, the easier alternative to the new O Levels] don't become a second-class area of poor performance. The CSE certificate which we did away with in the 80s became a valueless bit of paper. It was not worth anything to the students or the employers. That means there has got to be rigour for the other subjects at 16 as well.What is important is to ensure that the other subjects that are taken [ie, the easier alternative to the new O Levels] don't become a second-class area of poor performance. The CSE certificate which we did away with in the 80s became a valueless bit of paper. It was not worth anything to the students or the employers. That means there has got to be rigour for the other subjects at 16 as well.
From Kevin Brennan, the shadow education ministerFrom Kevin Brennan, the shadow education minister
Mrs Thatcher didn't abolish O-levels and CSEs without reason. It was because they actually stopped pupils from being able to fulfil their potential and sorted them out at far too young an age and I think that Michael Gove is in danger really of completely ripping up a system actually that works quite well but that does need to be looked at and reformed.Mrs Thatcher didn't abolish O-levels and CSEs without reason. It was because they actually stopped pupils from being able to fulfil their potential and sorted them out at far too young an age and I think that Michael Gove is in danger really of completely ripping up a system actually that works quite well but that does need to be looked at and reformed.
From the NASUWT teaching unionFrom the NASUWT teaching union
Michael Gove consigns Margaret Thatcher's education reforms to the dustbin of history.His arrogance is breathtaking. #SUFSMichael Gove consigns Margaret Thatcher's education reforms to the dustbin of history.His arrogance is breathtaking. #SUFS
— NASUWT (@nasuwtunion) June 21, 2012— NASUWT (@nasuwtunion) June 21, 2012
From the BBC's Ross HawkinsFrom the BBC's Ross Hawkins
Welsh Education Minister Leighton Andrews tells @BBCr5live that govt in Wales "certainly won't be bringing back O levels."Welsh Education Minister Leighton Andrews tells @BBCr5live that govt in Wales "certainly won't be bringing back O levels."
— Ross Hawkins (@rosschawkins) June 21, 2012— Ross Hawkins (@rosschawkins) June 21, 2012
From Sky's Sophy RidgeFrom Sky's Sophy Ridge
Lib Dem source on Gove's O-level plans: A "two tier exam system" will cause "mass concern" and "conflicts" with social mobility agendaLib Dem source on Gove's O-level plans: A "two tier exam system" will cause "mass concern" and "conflicts" with social mobility agenda
— Sophy Ridge (@SophyRidgeSky) June 21, 2012— Sophy Ridge (@SophyRidgeSky) June 21, 2012
Striking number of Conservative MPs on Twitter v supportive of Gove's 'Return on O-level' proposals.Haven't seen any Lib Dems comment yet...Striking number of Conservative MPs on Twitter v supportive of Gove's 'Return on O-level' proposals.Haven't seen any Lib Dems comment yet...
— Sophy Ridge (@SophyRidgeSky) June 21, 2012— Sophy Ridge (@SophyRidgeSky) June 21, 2012
From Labour's John PrescottFrom Labour's John Prescott
So we're going to cause massive unrest in our school changing from GCSEs to #GOveLevels just to please the Daily Mail?So we're going to cause massive unrest in our school changing from GCSEs to #GOveLevels just to please the Daily Mail?
— John Prescott (@johnprescott) June 20, 2012— John Prescott (@johnprescott) June 20, 2012
From Labour activist Joe DromeyFrom Labour activist Joe Dromey
Interesting to hear Gove argue for end to competition in exam boards. Apparently state run monopoly will drive up standardsInteresting to hear Gove argue for end to competition in exam boards. Apparently state run monopoly will drive up standards
— Joe Dromey (@Joe_Dromey) June 21, 2012— Joe Dromey (@Joe_Dromey) June 21, 2012
From Tory MP Philip DaviesFrom Tory MP Philip Davies
As someone who did the first ever GCSEs in 1988 as well as a couple of O levels the year before, I am sure Michael Gove is rightAs someone who did the first ever GCSEs in 1988 as well as a couple of O levels the year before, I am sure Michael Gove is right
— Philip Davies (@PhilipDaviesMP) June 21, 2012— Philip Davies (@PhilipDaviesMP) June 21, 2012
9.04am: The Treasury minister David Gauke has welcomed Jimmy Carr's decision to pull out of the K2 tax avoidance scheme and urged other people involved in it to do the same.9.04am: The Treasury minister David Gauke has welcomed Jimmy Carr's decision to pull out of the K2 tax avoidance scheme and urged other people involved in it to do the same.
This is what he told BBC News.This is what he told BBC News.
I welcome what Jimmy Carr has said. I think it's the right step for him to take. All the focus has been on him. But of course there are many people who have invested in these schemes that are very artificial and contrived. They are clearly not in accordance with the intention of parliament and they are not fair on the general taxpayer who has to pay more as a consequence.I welcome what Jimmy Carr has said. I think it's the right step for him to take. All the focus has been on him. But of course there are many people who have invested in these schemes that are very artificial and contrived. They are clearly not in accordance with the intention of parliament and they are not fair on the general taxpayer who has to pay more as a consequence.
I hope others who have invested in such schemes, who maybe thought "Well, it's a great opportunity to reduce my tax bill", also think carefully about it, think whether it is fair, whether it is right that they do so.I hope others who have invested in such schemes, who maybe thought "Well, it's a great opportunity to reduce my tax bill", also think carefully about it, think whether it is fair, whether it is right that they do so.
8.50am: Here's some Twitter reaction to the Jimmy Carr announcement.8.50am: Here's some Twitter reaction to the Jimmy Carr announcement.
From Stewart Wood, the Labour peerFrom Stewart Wood, the Labour peer
Now that Jimmy Carr has apologised, I expect Cameron will be moving on to those in his party & social circles who also use tax avoidance.Now that Jimmy Carr has apologised, I expect Cameron will be moving on to those in his party & social circles who also use tax avoidance.
— Stewart Wood (@StewartWood) June 21, 2012— Stewart Wood (@StewartWood) June 21, 2012
From Labour MP Jamie ReedFrom Labour MP Jamie Reed
Cameron tries to scapegoat Carr. Media turn up at Carr's house to doorstep him. Leveson?Cameron tries to scapegoat Carr. Media turn up at Carr's house to doorstep him. Leveson?
— Jamie Reed (@jreedmp) June 21, 2012— Jamie Reed (@jreedmp) June 21, 2012
From PoliticsHome's Paul WaughFrom PoliticsHome's Paul Waugh
This is funniest thing he's done in ages. Jimmy Carr admits to 'a terrible error of judgement' re taxes. Sounds like a 2nd rate MPThis is funniest thing he's done in ages. Jimmy Carr admits to 'a terrible error of judgement' re taxes. Sounds like a 2nd rate MP
— Paul Waugh (@paulwaugh) June 21, 2012— Paul Waugh (@paulwaugh) June 21, 2012
Pressure now really on Gary Barlow to follow Carr's suit. Much more politically tricky for Cam, given endorsement b4 election.Pressure now really on Gary Barlow to follow Carr's suit. Much more politically tricky for Cam, given endorsement b4 election.
— Paul Waugh (@paulwaugh) June 21, 2012— Paul Waugh (@paulwaugh) June 21, 2012
From Times columnist David AaronovitchFrom Times columnist David Aaronovitch
Jimmy Carr has been shamed out of tax immorality. That is something of a victory, and worth celebrating. Good statement too.Jimmy Carr has been shamed out of tax immorality. That is something of a victory, and worth celebrating. Good statement too.
— David Aaronovitch (@DAaronovitch) June 21, 2012— David Aaronovitch (@DAaronovitch) June 21, 2012
From Labour's John PrescottFrom Labour's John Prescott
PM attacking @jimmycarr was a media distraction to the doctors strike. Once Tory supporters were accused of doing same, we get #govelevelsPM attacking @jimmycarr was a media distraction to the doctors strike. Once Tory supporters were accused of doing same, we get #govelevels
— John Prescott (@johnprescott) June 21, 2012— John Prescott (@johnprescott) June 21, 2012
From the commentator Mehdi HasanFrom the commentator Mehdi Hasan
If only Ken Livingstone had followed Jimmy Carr's example, eh? He might have been mayor now... #jimmycarronestepaheadIf only Ken Livingstone had followed Jimmy Carr's example, eh? He might have been mayor now... #jimmycarronestepahead
— Mehdi Hasan (@ns_mehdihasan) June 21, 2012— Mehdi Hasan (@ns_mehdihasan) June 21, 2012
8.45am: "Breaking" (as they say, rather irritatingly, on Twitter). The comedian Jimmy Carr has raised the white flag. Around 16 hours after David Cameron said his involvement in the K2 tax avoidance scheme was "morally wrong", he used his Twitter feed to say he was pulling out of it. Here are the key tweets.8.45am: "Breaking" (as they say, rather irritatingly, on Twitter). The comedian Jimmy Carr has raised the white flag. Around 16 hours after David Cameron said his involvement in the K2 tax avoidance scheme was "morally wrong", he used his Twitter feed to say he was pulling out of it. Here are the key tweets.
I appreciate as a comedian, people will expect me to 'make light' of this situation, but I'm not going to in this statementI appreciate as a comedian, people will expect me to 'make light' of this situation, but I'm not going to in this statement
as this is obviously a serious matter.as this is obviously a serious matter.
I met with a financial advisor and he said to me "Do you want to pay less tax? It's totally legal." I said "Yes."I met with a financial advisor and he said to me "Do you want to pay less tax? It's totally legal." I said "Yes."
I now realise I've made a terrible error of judgement.I now realise I've made a terrible error of judgement.
Although I've been advised the K2 Tax scheme is entirely legal, and has been fully disclosed to HMRC (Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs),Although I've been advised the K2 Tax scheme is entirely legal, and has been fully disclosed to HMRC (Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs),
I'm no longer involved in it and will in future conduct my financial affairs much more responsibly. Apologies to everyone. Jimmy CarrI'm no longer involved in it and will in future conduct my financial affairs much more responsibly. Apologies to everyone. Jimmy Carr
Good for him. I'll be covering the reaction to this, as well as looking at the other big story this morning, the Daily Mail's revelation that Michael Gove wants to scrap GCSEs. And then, at about 2pm, we've got a rare press conference with David Cameron. He's giving it with the Burmese opposition leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, but I fear it won't last long because as soon as the questions get tricky, Cameron will say she's got to head off for her speech to parliament (at 3pm).Good for him. I'll be covering the reaction to this, as well as looking at the other big story this morning, the Daily Mail's revelation that Michael Gove wants to scrap GCSEs. And then, at about 2pm, we've got a rare press conference with David Cameron. He's giving it with the Burmese opposition leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, but I fear it won't last long because as soon as the questions get tricky, Cameron will say she's got to head off for her speech to parliament (at 3pm).
As usual, I'll be covering all the breaking political news, as well as looking at the papers and bringing you the best politics from the web. I'll post a lunchtime summary at around 1pm and another at about 4pm.As usual, I'll be covering all the breaking political news, as well as looking at the papers and bringing you the best politics from the web. I'll post a lunchtime summary at around 1pm and another at about 4pm.
If you want to follow me on Twitter, I'm on @AndrewSparrow.If you want to follow me on Twitter, I'm on @AndrewSparrow.
And if you're a hardcore fan, you can follow @gdnpoliticslive. It's an automated feed that tweets the start of every new post that I put on the blog.And if you're a hardcore fan, you can follow @gdnpoliticslive. It's an automated feed that tweets the start of every new post that I put on the blog.