HC Deb 10 May 1967 vol 746 cc1502-3
41. Mr. Rankin

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will enumerate the various ways, consistent with his policy, in which selectivity can be retained within a comprehensive system of education.

Mr. Millan

It was envisaged in Circular No. 600 that some education authorities, for geographical reasons or as an alternative to long delay in achieving comprehensive reorganisation, might adopt a "two-tier" form of organisation.

Mr. Rankin

Is my hon. Friend aware that a feeling was created that my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Scotland thought that there should or could be some selectivity in education in the Scottish set-up, which, in the view of many of us, was inconsistent with Labour Party policy? Can he assure us that that will not be the case?

Mr. Millan

Nothing has happened which is in any way contrary to Circular No. 600 issued about 18 months ago. I can assure my hon. Friend about that.

Mr. Edward M. Taylor

Would the hon. Gentleman at least agree to adopting a more flexible attitude than is adopted in Circular 600 and give a specific assurance that he will not bully and bludgeon the Glasgow Labour-controlled Corporation into abolishing selective schools against its better judgment?

Mr. Millan

There is no question of bullying or bludgeoning Glasgow Education Authority, and I am sure that it would not be looking to the hon. Gentleman for help even if there were.