Newton Rigg College can play a key role in delivering the Government's new "lifetime skills guarantee", the MP for Penrith and the Border has said.

Speaking in the House of Commons yesterday, Dr Neil Hudson praised Newton Rigg as a "fantastic college", and spoke of his hopes that funding could soon be secured for the closure-threatened establishment.

A strategic review is currently underway by the further education commissioner, to decide the future of the Penrith college.

Dr Hudson's comments came as part of a question to the Secretary of State for Education, Gavin Williamson.

“I really welcome the Lifetime Skills Guarantee from the Government," Dr Hudson said.

"I firmly believe it will increase the access and flexibility to learning in both Further and Higher Education for learners young and old.

"Newton Rigg College in my constituency of Penrith and The Border is currently the subject of a strategic review by the further education commissioner as we look to secure a new organisation to take over the College."

Mr Williamson said that he "looked forward" to continuing to work with Dr Hudson him over the future of Newton Rigg College.

"He is right to highlight not only Newton Rigg College but colleges up and down the land in all of our constituencies play a vital role in the delivery of these qualifications and the delivery of these at the forefront on this nation’s recovery from this pandemic.”

After the exchange, Dr Hudson added: “I was pleased with the response that I received from the Minister that confirms this Government’s commitment to make sure both higher and further Education plays a central role in our recovery from the Covid-19.

"I will also continue to raise the importance of securing a positive future for Newton Rigg College with Ministers at all levels and was glad to see the Secretary of State committing to continue to work with me on this.”