The Liberal Democrat County Council group has made the following statement:
“Liberal Democrat Councillors are shocked by the comments made by 3 Conservative Councillors at Children's Scrutiny Committee.
The Lib Dem County group supports the Warwickshire SEND group in its call for a public apology. The group has also offered to meet local parents to discuss what has happened.
Cllr Jerry Roodhouse Group Leader said
"I find it really disappointing it makes me and the Lib Dem group angry that we still have elected members who do not seem to understand the pressures placed on children and families. Their comments have tarnished all Councillors and the hard work of Officers and a full public apology is needed.
The Leader should also consider removing these members from the Childrens Scrutiny Committee.”
Jenny Wilkinson, Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Candidate for Kenilworth and Southam, adds:
“The comments made by these Warwickshire County Councillors regarding SEND children are absolutely disgraceful. Until recently, I was a SEND school governor so I have seen first hand the desperate need for additional funding to ensure all our children can have the education they deserve.
These councillors should consider their positions. As a minimum, they need to apologise and be educated about the issues and challenges impacting SEND children and their families.”