​​​Secretary of State Gavin Williamson has confirmed, in an answer to a question from Romford M.P. Andrew Rosindell, that only one parent needs to be a critical worker for their children to be eligible to continue attending school during the new lockdown

Addressing the House of Commons virtually from Romford, Mr Rosindell also praised the "incredible dedication and self-sacrifice shown by teachers and staff throughout Romford and Havering throughout this pandemic."

He added that "their determination to reorganise the schools to keep everyone safe and continue to provide the highest standard of education must be commended."

Gavin Williamson was taking questions from M.P.s on educational arrangements during the new lockdown. He said that he joined Mr Rosindell in paying tribute "not just to teachers in Romford but all the support staff who open up the schools, welcome the children and form such an important part of that school community."