§ 18. Mr. Armstrongasked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what will be the reduction in the grants by the Department and local education authorities to direct grant schools as a result of the cuts in spending now being imposed on the education service.
§ Mr. RaisonLocal education authorities do not pay grant to these schools and my right hon. Friend has no plans to reduce the Department's grant.
§ Mr. ArmstrongCan the Minister confirm that local education authorities, together with the Department of Education and Science, pay £17 million from public funds in a total income of £27 million which goes to direct grant schools? There is no suggestion that any sacrifice will be made by these already privileged schools. How does the hon. Gentleman reconcile that with the fact that children already disadvantaged are having to do without necessary resources, equipment, books and even school buildings? How can he justify that state of affairs?
§ Mr. RaisonLocal authorities are free to take up places at direct grant schools as they desire, but I made it clear in yesterday's debate that proposals to increase grant and fees are scrutinised rigorously and that schools will be expected to make economies comparable with those being required of maintained schools in present circumstances. The level of grant will reflect this.
§ Mr. ArmstrongWill the hon. Gentleman confirm that £17 million of public money out of £27 million is going to the 238 direct grant schools? How can he justify retaining that figure when cuts are being made in the public sector?
§ Mr. RaisonI cannot confirm the exact figure off the cuff, but there is no doubt that substantial sums of public money go to the direct grant schools; that is not in dispute. But the direct grant schools provide very good education for a wide cross-section of the community.