Mr Thorpe said he “cannot in all good conscience stand by whilst the numbers are doubling so quickly” in a letter issued to headteachers yesterday.
Most children would continue learning remotely, while key workers could still count on in-person teaching.
But the Government has taken exception with their plans, however, signalling a desire to keep schools open, and delivered on threats to force schools to reopen under the Coronavirus Act.
Education secretary Gavin Williamson issued a “temporary continuity direction” which forced council leader’s hands.
