§ 24. Mr. Millanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what discussions he has had with regard to educational administration under the proposed reformed system of local government.
§ Mr. MonroThe broad outline of the proposals for local government reform, which included the proposal that education should be a regional responsibility, were discussed with the local authority associations; the implications for the education service have been discussed at a conference of the Association of Directors of Education and my right lion. Friend's Department; and my officials have met representatives of the Churches, at their request, to hear their views on the desirability of continued involvement of the Churches in administration of education.
§ Mr. MillanIs the Minister aware that in spite of the publication of the Bill there is still uncertainty about exactly how education will be administered? The 1284 teachers' organisations, among others, complain of lack of consultation. It is a particularly acute problem in the Strathclyde region, which does not make sense as an educational authority.
§ Mr. MonroI know the hon. Member's views on the West Region and I am sure he will develop them at a later stage. Of course we have had informal contacts with all people interested in education, and other than on the issue of teacher representation on regional councils I believe there to be very little between us on the Bill, which is generally welcomed. In any event there has been no request from the teachers' associations to consult us.