Kennedy Sets out Pupils' Guarantee

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Thu 21st Apr 2005

Lib Dems pledge to allow children spend more time learning and less time cramming for Labour's tests.

Charles Kennedy, Leader of the Liberal Democrats, has set out a five point promise to every child.

The Lib Dem 'Pupils' Guarantee' will ensure:

• First class teachers

• A personal curriculum

• Smaller classes

• Fewer tests

• State of the art schools.

Dr Michael Heavens, Liberal Democrat parliamentary spokesman for Epping Forest Constituency, said: "These are five promises for a bright start for all, not just a privileged few. We've heard much form the other two parties about choice as a panacea for improving schools. Yet young people are seldom- if ever- mentioned!

"Under labour, teachers are overwhelmed by Government paperwork. Children should spend more time learning and less time cramming for Labour's tests."

Additionally, The Liberal Democrats are committed to abolishing university tuition and top-up fees- Labour's Poll Tax on Learning.