HC Deb 17 June 1971 vol 819 cc631-2
32. Sir D. Walker-Smith

asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science when it is proposed to review the provisions of Circular 8/60 and promulgate new directions providing more effectively for the needs of nursery classes.

The Under-Secretary of State for Education and Science (Mr. William van Straubenzee)

My right hon. Friend's first priority is the improvement of primary schools for children of compulsory school age. Later she hopes to be able to turn to the needs of nursery education.

Sir D. Walker-Smith

I warmly endorse the first priority that my hon. Friend enunciated. Will he please see to it that it is not much later before he comes to the second but also very important priority?

Mr. van Straubenzee

I am sure that my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State will want to respond as far as resources allow. I am aware of the special action which has been taken in the Hertfordshire local authority area, part of which is represented by my right hon. and learned Friend.