§ 10. Mr. Ian Gilmourasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if he is satisfied with the response of local authorities to his request for them to review their school transport arrangements; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. RedheadMy right hon. Friend relies on local education authorities to use the discretion given to them under the Act. He does not ask them to give him detailed information.
§ Mr. GilmourAs this is a matter which affects a great many children in rural areas, ought not the hon. Gentleman to take it seriously and bother to find out what is happening?
§ Mr. RedheadI assure the hon. Gentleman that we do take it seriously. While not having precise information as to the response to my right hon. Friend's circular letter when he urged upon authorities, on 12th February last year, the importance of being flexible and generous in these arrangements, we know that many authorities use their discretionary powers with a great deal of flexibility and generosity.