§ 10. Mr. Smallasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what increase there has been in the number of pupils in private schools in Scotland from 1964 to date.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Bruce Millan)The number of pupils in independent schools dropped by some 400 between January 1964 and January 1968. Figures for 1969 are not yet available.
§ Mr. SmallDoes that Answer rebut the claims which have been often made that this party is doctrinaire in its approach to the private sector, and will my right hon. Friend keep under review this sector of the grant-aided schools?
§ Mr. MillanThe figures I have quoted do not include the grant-aided schools, which are not normally included in the private sector as such. There are figures increased slightly, but my hon. Friend will know that grant-aided schools, as well as independent schools, are now before the Public Schools Commission.
§ Mr. MacArthurWill the hon. Gentleman give an assurance to the House that he will defend to the uttermost the principle of freedom of choice in education?
§ Mr. MillanI think we have argued this at very considerable length. [HON. MEMBERS: "Answer."] The answer is, "Yes". [HON. MEMBERS: "Hear, hear."] But there is a difference of opinion, I think, between the hon. Gentleman and myself as to what, in fact, freedom of choice means, particularly in the State sector of education.