§ 32. Mr. Clark Hutchisonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will ensure that biblical studies are included as an examination subject for the Scottish Certificate of Education.
§ Mr. MillanMy right hon. Friend has received representations as to the need for an inquiry into the whole field of moral, spiritual and religious instruction in schools. Until he has been able 1714 to consider this matter fully and the wider issues which it involves, he would prefer not to make any approach to the Scottish Certificate of Education Examination Board regarding the question of whether an examination in religious knowledge or biblical studies could or should be instituted.
§ Mr. Clark HutchisonWhen may we expect a decision on this matter?
Mr. MilianI am not able to give a precise date at the moment. We are well aware that there is a good deal of interest in this matter, but it is very complicated, not least from the statutory point of view.