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Written question asked by Steve Darling (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 15 July 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 1 September 2026. It was answered by Josh MacAlister (Labour) on Tuesday, 1 September 2026 on behalf of the Department for Education.


Schools: Lead

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, who is the responsible body for ensuring lead testing happens in school buildings.

Answer

Responsibility for the safety and maintenance of school buildings, including ensuring the quality of drinking water, rests with the responsible body for the school. For maintained schools this is usually the local authority or governing body, and for academies it is the academy trust.

Responsible bodies are expected to comply with relevant legal requirements and take appropriate action, including testing for lead in drinking water where there is a potential risk. The School Premises (England) Regulations 2012 require schools to have suitable drinking water facilities.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
19157
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Lead Monitoring Schools Testing
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk