HC Deb 02 July 1964 vol 697 cc1535-6
29. Dr. Bray

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what facilities he proposes to provide for the reorganisation of secondary education in Thornaby-on-Tees in the North Riding of Yorkshire, in view of the reorganisation proposed for the secondary schools in Middlesbrough used by Thornaby children.

Mr. Chataway

I understand that the Middlesbrough local education authority intends to consult the North Riding local education authority about its secondary reorganisation proposals in so far as they affect Thornaby children.

Dr. Bray

Is the Under-Secretary aware that this well illustrates the difficulties into which both local authorities and the public are plunged because of the confusion in the mind of the Government about comprehensive secondary education? Is he aware that where the education provisions of neighbouring local authorities overlap and progress is made at a different rate, very great hardship and injustice is imposed on a large number of parents? Is he not going to tell the House of any Government policy to deal with these problems, wherever they occur?

Mr. Chataway

I would be prepared to concede that some of the problems the hon. Member has in mind might be avoided if the Government were to impose comprehensive secondary schools on every local education authority, but I understand that that would give rise to far more serious problems.

Mr. Willey

In view of the debate we had last night, will the Government consider publishing a White Paper on the reorganisation of secondary education?

Mr. Chataway

I am sure that my right hon. and learned Friend will consider that suggestion.