Andrew Gwynne, MP for Denton and Reddish, has backed calls to get more primary school aged children reading, following an event in Parliament hosted by the National Literacy Trust.
A report launched at the event showed that one in seven primary schools does not have a library, with that rising to one in four for schools in the most deprived parts of the country.
The event was supported by world famous children’s author Jaqueline Wilson, best known for the Tracy Beaker series, whose books have inspired millions of children to discover a love of reading.
Gwynne said:
“Given the impact, both from a developmental and social perspective, that reading has on children from a young age, it is frankly shameful that there are primary schools without libraries.
“My daughter Maisie grew up reading Jaqueline Wilson books, something that didn’t just equip her with vital literacy skills but gave her a lifelong love of reading.
“I want to see as many children as possible being provided that same opportunity to discover a passion for books, ensuring that passion is passed down through the generations.”