Michale Gove, Conservative minister for education has announced a reading test for all 6 year old pupils in England.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/education-11797514

Pupils in England will take the tests in Year 1 from 2012 and a pilot scheme will start next summer.

Ministers say the tests will be a “progress check” to help identify children needing extra support.

More details of the new policy to follow soon.