Inevitably for those local authorities impacted by these proposals there will be an additional burden. However, in the interests of the young people involved, we consider that an appropriate cost. We are not in a position to estimate the likely additional time and cost involved

We are concerned that there appears to be a presumption against changing the character of a community school to a school having a religious character. Whilst there may be few occasions where this is deemed appropriate, it is possible that this might represent a way to increase the effectiveness and viability of a school. We do feel that this stipulation might represent a reduction of choice for communities and should not automatically be disallowed for consideration.

Read the full response here.