HC Deb 03 March 1966 vol 725 c1463
16. Mr. Shepherd

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science whether, in view of the problems which arise when children are transferred from one education authority to another, he will seek to enforce standard intelligence tests.

Mr. Redhead

The testing of pupils is a matter for the discretion of local education authorities and schools, but they are in general ready to accept each others' assessments of pupils' abilities and aptitudes. These assessments are not normally confined to the results of intelligence tests. Other factors are taken into account.

Mr. Shepherd

Does not the hon. Gentleman realise that they are not readily accepted and that the different bases on which these tests are made make it very difficult to accept them? Will the hon. Gentleman go further into this matter?

Mr. Redhead

Perhaps it would be helpful, if the hon. Member has a particular case in mind, to send me details.