MIKE Amesbury is introducing a bill to Parliament aimed at lowering the cost of school uniforms.

The Labour MP for Weaver Vale came first in a Private Members' bill ballot in Parliament in January, giving him the rare opportunity to push new legislation through the Commons.

After considering representations from constituents, charities and campaign groups, Mike has opted to introduce a bill which would legally require schools to put school uniform affordability as a priority to cut the cost for many families that are struggling to afford them.

If passed, the new law will mean that school heads and governors can specify basic items, such as trousers and shirts, but not styles – so parents can shop around and buy more affordable uniforms rather than designer items from ‘preferred suppliers’.

Northwich Guardian:

According the Children’s Society, nearly one in six families say spiralling uniform costs have forced them to cut back on food and other essentials, compared with one in seven only five years ago.

Mike will present his bill on Wednesday. If it gathers enough support, the proposal could become law in spring.

Mike said: “Families are under ever-increasing financial pressures and this bill would give them some much-needed leeway when it comes to buying uniforms.

"The average cost of a school uniform at secondary schools was £340 per year in 2018 and £255 per year for each primary school child.

"Many children are turning up with ill fitting uniforms and for too many families the cost of a uniform is determining the choice of school, this injustice must end.

“I spent a lot of time talking to people, campaign groups and charities about which policy change to try and take forward.

"Over the coming weeks I will be lobbying and seeking the support of all Parliamentarians to ensure we do the right thing for the families and children in our constituencies.

"I urge everybody who shares my passion to lobby your MP. "