PPM Responds to the Prime Minister’s Speech

On 4 January 2023, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak set out his vision for the year ahead. One of his primary policy changes was to introduce compulsory maths education up to 18. The Prime Minister argued that many of the UK’s children are being “let down” by leaving their education without the numeracy and analytical skills needed for today’s workplace.

Whilst the details of how this policy will be implemented are yet to be revealed, the Protect Pure Maths Campaign greatly welcomes the Prime Minister’s recognition of the importance of maths. Through matching educational requirements with the likes of the USA, Germany and France, this will prepare the next generation for a job market that is more data-driven, requiring further analytical skills. At present, only half of 16-19 year olds study maths, limiting the number of students that are eligible for highly-skilled, well-paid job opportunities in sectors such as tech, cyber security and AI.

In response to the Prime Minister’s speech, Professor Ulrike Tillmann, President of the London Mathematical Society said:

Several supporters of the Protect Pure Maths Campaign were approached for interviews with BBC News, Sky News and LBC. Videos from these interviews can be found below.

Professor Ulrike Tillmann on BBC News

Dr Kevin Houston on Sky News

Professor Nira Chamberlain on LBC News

Dr Kevin Houston on LBC News