KEIR STARMER has refused to back education unions’ call for a phased return to schools from March 8, saying the country should “work towards” a full return of all pupils. 

The Labour leader’s comments fly in the face of calls made last week by nine education unions and organisations which warned that a full return would be “reckless” and risked triggered a spike in infections. 

In a joint statement on Friday the groups said the PM, who has previously stated he wants all students back in classrooms on Mach 8, should opt for a “phased return” of pupils over a period of time.