HC Deb 23 July 1970 vol 804 cc730-1
8. Mr. Iremonger

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if she will make a statement about her policy towards the future of direct grant schools, and the Ursuline Convent School, Ilford, in particular.

12. Sir G. Nabarro

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science if she will make a statement concerning her policy regarding the future of the direct grant schools.

29. Mr. Kenneth Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what plans she has for assisting the direct-grant schools; and whether she will make a statement.

Mrs. Thatcher

It is our expressed intention to encourage the direct grant schools. I am at present in consultation with the Direct Grant Joint Committee. No formal proposals have been received about reorganising the Ursuline Convent School.

Mr. Iremonger

Is there any way in which the Minister can give a guarantee that the arrangements which she makes will not be "mucked up" in future by Socialist Governments?

Mrs. Thatcher

Unfortunately I cannot give that guarantee, but they will not, in my hon. Friend's vernacular, be "mucked up" by me.

Sir G. Nabarro

I congratulate my right hon. Friend on her statement and warmly welcome it. Will she embrace my view that the direct grant schools do not represent a divisive influence in our society? Therefore, will she do her utmost to encourage the high quality which such establishments engender?

Mrs. Thatcher

Yes, Sir.