HC Deb 23 June 1971 vol 819 cc1398-9
2. Mr. Brewis

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland when he expects to complete his review of the long-term grant arrangements for grant-aided schools; and if he will make a statement.

The Under-Secretary of State for Health and Education, Scottish Office (Mr. Edward Taylor)

The grant-aided schools are at present preparing at my right hon. Friend's request a collective view on the long-term arrangements and they hope to let him have this by about the end of July. We shall want to consider their views and I cannot yet say when the review will be completed.

Mr. Brewis

Is it the policy of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State that schools like George Watson's and Heriot's, which have contributed to the excellence of Scottish education, should be able to continue to do so and should not be slowly strangled for doctrinaire reasons, which was the object of the last Secretary of State?

Mr. Taylor

The Government are committed to continuing to support grant-aided schools.

Mr. Gregor Mackenzie

Will the hon. Gentleman give the cost to the taxpayer of subsidising grant-aided schools in Scotland?

Mr. Taylor

That is a separate question. I should be glad to give the hon. Member the precise information if he would table a Question. As I have said, the long-term arrangements for grant-aided schools are under review.