THE Welsh Government has dismissed suggestions from the Aberconwy MS, Janet Finch-Saunders, that there are no plans for a special book celebrating the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee to be rolled out to schools.

Last week, Mrs Finch-Saunders said she was made aware of schools in the region struggling to “opt into” into the Welsh Government’s programme to receive a copy of the book commissioned to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s 70 years on the British throne.

The anniversary will be celebrated across the UK at the beginning of June.

Mrs Finch-Saunders said: “I am absolutely disgusted to have learnt that the Welsh Government does not intend on informing schools on how it can opt into its scheme until after the Easter holidays.

“This is a totally unacceptable situation and one that I believe once again highlights that the Welsh Government makes big announcements without having done the research or put the plan in place to follow it through.

“As it stands, it is clear that the Welsh Government has attempted to block schoolchildren in Wales from being able to access this literature and is stalling its opt-in scheme to further prevent schools from accessing this important book.”

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In response to this, a Welsh Government spokesperson has said this is not the case, and that all primary schools in Wales will be able to order the Platinum Jubilee book in early May via the Department for Education.

A large number of events have also been planned across Wales this year to mark the Platinum Jubilee.

The spokesperson said: “Janet Finch-Saunders’ claims are incorrect - all primary schools will have the opportunity to receive the books for their pupils if they wish.

“The opportunity to opt in will be publicised in a newsletter that issues to all schools in May.

“The Department for Education in England is producing the Platinum Jubilee book, which we understand they plan to issue in Wales in September.

“The Welsh Government has no role in the production or distribution of the book.”