Twickenham’s MP has pushed his new cabinet colleagues to confirm funding for two new academies.

Vince Cable, Business Secretary in the new coalition Government, met fellow ministers to discuss the uncertainty surrounding funding for the new academies set to replace Whitton School and Hampton Community College (HCC) next month.

From September 1, Twickenham Academy and Hampton Academy - both run by Swedish education firm Kunskapsskolan - will replace the two schools.

Last month, new Education Secretary Michael Gove announced every new academy would be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and Councillor Geoffrey Samuel, Richmond Council deputy leader, said the authority would not stump up any cash.

According to reports when the plans were approved in December 2009, the council should get about £16.4m to refurbish HCC and about £22.1m to rebuild Whitton - but all sums are now subject to Government clarification.

Dr Cable said: “There is a lot of cross party and parental support for the new academies and rebuilding is crucial to the success of the Swedish style of learning.

“It was inevitable that the new Government would review the affordability of the rebuilding work given the country’s financial position.

“I have asked that this review is conducted speedily so that there is a definite outcome before the new school term.

“It is important to stress the Government is fully behind academies.”