Oral evidenceSelect & Joint CommitteesTuesday, 2 June 202613:30

Education Committee: Reading for Pleasure

Committee hears from witnesses

The Education Committee is holding oral evidence sessions to examine reading for pleasure among young people in England. The inquiry will explore why reading rates have declined, barriers to engagement, and how schools, libraries, and publishers can encourage more children to read for enjoyment rather than duty. The session will hear from witnesses with expertise in literacy, education, and the publishing sector.

Reading for pleasure in childhood predicts later educational attainment, mental health, and social mobility. The inquiry affects policy on school curricula, library funding, and how the education system prioritises engagement with books alongside exam-focused learning. It signals Labour's interest in cultural participation as a lever for addressing educational inequality.

Education Culture & Community

Committee mentioned:Education Committee