The government is considering delayed starts to the 2021 GCSE and A-level exams to ensure pupils have enough time to recover lost learning.

Schools minister Nick Gibb told BBC Breakfast that the government would make a decision “very soon” on whether or not exams would be delayed.

And education secretary Gavin Williamson is reportedly considering moving the exam start dates from May to June following consultation with Ofqual.

News: Ofqual proposes late GCSE start date for 2021

Related: Unrealistic’ to run full GCSE course in most subjects

Ofqual: Exam boards should offer all subjects in autumn

“We have to also take into account the other nations in the UK that use the GCSE and A-Levels, to take into account their issues as well, but we will be making a decision, with the regulator and the exam boards, very soon,” Mr Gibb said.

The Labour party has recently called for delays to exams next year because of the amount of time pupils have missed from school.

“Pupils across the country who have missed out on vital teaching time will have a mountain to climb to prepare for May exams unless the government steps in,” shadow education secretary Kate Green said.