In an open letter, five former education secretaries have called on Labour MPs to approve the upcoming reforms to special education needs and disabilities (Send) in England, describing this initiative as a critical opportunity to rectify persistent shortcomings in the education system. The signatories include David Blunkett, Estelle Morris, Charles Clarke, Ruth Kelly, and Alan Johnson, who collectively had significant influence over the education sector during their decade-long tenure from 1997. Their appeal coincides with the anticipation of a pivotal schools white paper expected to detail the proposed changes and highlight the urgency for reform during Leader Keir Starmer's administration.

The submission of this letter signals the importance of garnering support from Labour MPs, especially as Downing Street seeks to maintain stability against possible dissent regarding the proposed Send reforms. Past controversies surrounding reforms for disabled individuals have left the government wary; a repeat of such turmoil could jeopardize Prime Minister Starmer’s credibility. Consequently, there is a concerted effort from the government to navigate these changes carefully and ensure alignment among lawmakers, making this initiative central to his political goals.

With many Labour MPs recognizing the need for reform, the government has an opportunity not only to address the evident shortcomings within the education system but also to solidify a collaborative relationship with opposition figures and potentially redefine the landscape of special educational needs in the country. The outcome of these reforms may indeed serve as a benchmark for Starmer's leadership and influence the future direction of educational policy for years to come.