HC Deb 30 May 1946 vol 423 c1321
6. Mr. Corlett

asked the Minister of Education on what date it is expected that the new examination proposals will come into operation; and what arrangements are being made for the interim period.

The Minister of Education (Miss Ellen Wilkinson)

As indicated in paragraph 3 of Circular 103, details of the proposed reform of the Higher School Certificate will have to be worked out by the Secondary Schools Examinations Council. I am anxious that the reform should come into operation as soon as possible, but until I have received the recommendations of the Council I cannot give a definite date. Action in respect of the School Certificate must also await the recommendations of the Council. In the meantime, the present arrangements for Higher School Certificate and for School Certificate will continue, subject to the points made in paragraph 7 of the Circular.

Mr. Corlett

While congratulating the right hon. Lady on becoming a learned Lady, may I ask whether she is prepared to say that she will always consult the Secondary Schools Examinations Council before she makes any decision with regard to examinations?

Miss Wilkinson

"Always"Is rather a big word. I might say "almost always."