HC Deb 04 February 1971 vol 810 cc1885-7
5. Mr. Rost

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what representations she has received from parents and teachers in the Breadsall area, objecting to the proposed reorganisation of secondary education in sector A by Derby Borough Education Committee; what investigations she has undertaken; and what action she proposes to take to ensure that adequate consultations are permitted before any scheme is introduced.

Mr. van Straubenzee

Before the Authority submitted its formal proposal on 29th January, 1971, my right hon. Friend had received more than 20 letters from individuals and from a Parents' Committee opposing the Authority's intentions. Now that the period for formal objections has begun, I cannot comment further.

Mr. Rost

While thanking my hon. Friend for that reply, may I ask whether he is aware that the letters which he has received are only the tip of the iceberg compared with those coming through my post and that, in addition to 50 letters, I have received a petition containing 1,500 names? May we have the assurance that this matter will be looked into again so that parents and teachers in this part of South-East Derbyshire can have a fair deal from education?

Mr. van Straubenzee

Perhaps I should remind my hon. Friend that the very purpose of the procedures which I outlined in my original answer is that all points of view may be properly taken into account. Meanwhile I repeat, with no discourtesy to my hon. Friend, that it would be improper for me to make any comment.

6. Mr. Rost

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what proposals she has received from Derby Borough Education Committee for the reorganisation of secondary education sector A; whether she is satisfied the scheme is educationally viable, complies with her Circular 1070, and that adequate finance has been allocated to provide the necessary facilities to implement a satisfactory reorganisation; and if she will make a statement.

Mr. van Straubenzee

The Authority submitted formal proposals under Section 13 of the Education Act, 1944 and gave public notice of its intentions on 29th January. 1971. There is now a period of two months during which objections may be lodged with my right hon. Friend who will thereafter make a decision on the proposals taking into account any objections.

Mr. Rost

While thanking my hon. Friend for that reply, may I ask whether he is aware that there is extreme anxiety among a large number of parents and teachers in the area because they are seeing a bulldozed and botched-up scheme of comprehensive education reorganisation forced through against the majority will? Will my hon. Friend undertake that the situation will be properly investigated?

Mr. van Straubenzee

I am certain that my right hon. Friend will want to take very careful account of any objections that she receives. I am sure that my hon. Friend will therefore ensure that she receives them.