HC Deb 10 July 1974 vol 876 c1349
19. Mr. Rifkind

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will make a statement on his policy towards grant-aided schools.

Mr. Robert Hughes

As already announced, the grant payable for 1974–75 will be held at the same level as for 1973–74. Otherwise, I have nothing to add to the reply I gave to the hon. Gentleman on 10th April.—[Vol. 872, c. 414–5.]

Mr. Rifkind

I am not surprised that the Minister has nothing to add. Is he aware that the Government's statement to which he has just referred has been seen in Scotland as a spiteful and vindictive act, pursued for purely ideological purposes? Is he aware that the only practical effect of the statement has been to drive parents of very modest means to withdraw their children from grant-aided schools? Was that the Government's objective?

Mr. Hughes

The Government's objective in holding the grant is consistent with their policy and the Labour Party policy stated over many years, namely, to see that eventually we have the integration of grant-aided schools into the normal State system.

Mr. MacArthur

How does the Minister justify restricting freedom of choice in education to the very rich?

Mr. Hughes

I do not justify it at all. It is Conservative Members who justify freedom of education for the very rich.

Mr. Monro

On a point of order. In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I shall ask leave to raise the matter on the Adjournment.